2018 Au Paradis Cabernet Sauvignon
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Tasting notes
The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Au Paradis is delicate, understated and super-classy. Bright red-toned fruit, flowers and spice are finely delineated, but what impresses most about the Au Paradis is its elegant, finessed personality, especially compared to the first few vintages here and the generally powerful wines that are typically found in this sector of Oakville. The 2018 is vibrant and beautifully perfumed from start to finish. I can't wait to see how it ages.
Critic scores
Average Score
James Molesworth, Wine Spectator
Lisa Perrotti-Brown MW, Wine Advocate
More reviews and scores
76% Cabernet Sauvignon, 13% Merlot, 11% Cabernet Franc. Both rich and ripe in dark fruit and complex in earthy character. Cedar, menthol and blackberry. There are some tarry spices with aniseed and tobacco. This is as opulent as Les Pavots, but the savoury depth adds real complexity and precision. Long, smoky and full of cassis on the finish. (TP)
Gorgeous aromas of currants, blackberries, sweet tobacco and violets follow through to a full body with round, finely chewy tannins and a gorgeous finish of fruit, iodine and graphite. But always pretty fruit there. 76% cabernet sauvignon, 13% merlot and 11% cabernet franc. Better after 2024.
Coming from Oakville, the 2018 Au Paradis gives up a deep ruby/purple hue as well as full-bodied aromas and flavors of blackcurrants, green tobacco, lead pencil, sandalwood, and dried flowers. Flawlessly balanced, full-bodied, with silky yet present tannins, it's one of those elegant, seamless wines that surprise you with its richness and depth. It reminds me of a great vintage from Chateau Ducru Beaucaillou and is a brilliant, elegant, complex Cabernet that will evolve for two decades or more.
About the producer
Founded in 1983 by Sir Peter Michael CBE and his wife Margaret, Peter Michael Winery produces some of California’s finest wines.