2019 Au Paradis

The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Au Paradis is elite. Bright and aromatic, with terrific delineation, the 2019 is a fabulous yet embryonic wine that just needs time to flesh out. The energy and drive here are remarkable, as is the expression of this vineyard in the Eastern Hills of Oakville. Dark red/purplish fruit, spice, lavender, sage, mint and rose petal lend quite a bit of nuance. In a vintage in which so many wines are all about immediacy and overtness, Au Paradis is a wine for the future.

- Antonio Galloni (2022)

Solidly built, with a core of steeped plum and black currant flavors rolled up in loam, sweet tobacco and menthol notes. The dark earth side tumbles with the fruit through the finish with youthful power, leaving a muscular impression now, though this should unfold steadily and gain more nuance in the cellar. Best from 2023 through 2036. 1,917 cases made.

- JM (2022)

In 2009, Peter Michael purchased the former Showket Vineyard in Oakville, on the hillside below Continuum and above Dalla Valle. That is the source for the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Au Paradis, a blend of 76% Cabernet Sauvignon, 16% Cabernet Franc and 8% Merlot. Matured in 60% new French oak, it's a fairly forward, opulent wine, marked by scents of cigar box, tobacco, cassis, cherries and fine leather. Full-bodied, rich and velvety without being chocolaty or overdone, the lingering finish is—texturally—plush winter-weight flannel pajamas interwoven with complex, faintly herbal threads.

- Joe Czerwinski (2022)