2018 Peter Michael Winery Au Paradis

In 1982, after six years of searching for land to serve as both vineyard and family retreat, Sir Peter Michael and Lady Michael purchased 630 acres of volcanic ridges on the western face of Mount St. Helena in Knights Valley. As an avid collector of the wines from Bordeaux and Burgundy, he set out to create his vision of a mountain-grown, California Cabernet Sauvignon wine that would show authentic terroir, and rival even his favourite wines from home. In 2009 the family acquired the 26 acre Oakville Estate, featuring the acclaimed iron-rich, red-dirt soils to produce their first Napa Valley wine, ‘Au Paradis’ Estate Cabernet Sauvignon.

Other Reviews....
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.
98 points
James Suckling

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.
98 points
Jeb Dunnuck