2019 Peter Michael Au Paradis Cabernet Sauvignon Napa 97-Pt Rated

The 2019 Peter Michael Au Paradis Cabernet Sauvignon Blend from Oakville Napa Valley is a masterclass in precision and elegance, crafted to captivate discerning wine enthusiasts seeking complexity and longevity. Hailing from Oakville’s esteemed Eastern Hills AVA, this limited-production red combines 76% Cabernet Sauvignon with 16% Cabernet Franc and 8% Merlot, sourced exclusively from Peter Michael’s hillside vineyard nestled between Continuum and Dalla Valle estates. Aged for 18 months in French oak barrels—60% new—the wine balances opulent fruit with refined tannins, offering a drinking experience that rewards patience while delivering immediate allure.

James Suckling’s 99-point rating underscores its striking aromatic depth: spice-kissed blackberries, dark currants, and hints of graphite intertwine seamlessly. The full-bodied palate reveals velvety tannins and a vibrant core of fruit that lingers for minutes, culminating in a cool-mineral finish that highlights Oakville’s unique terroir. For those who prefer approachability now or want to track its evolution over decades, this wine’s structure ensures it will gain even more nuance with cellaring until 2025 or beyond.

Decanter praises its lifted freshness and precise minerality—a testament to the vineyard’s cooler microclimate—while Jeb Dunnuck notes its nuanced interplay of ripe redcurrant, tobacco leaf, and floral accents like rose petal. Vinous highlights its remarkable energy and embryonic layers of lavender and sage, distinguishing it from overtly forward Napa Valley wines by its restrained elegance and age-worthy potential.

This Au Paradis isn’t just a bottle; it’s an investment in exceptional craftsmanship. Its refined balance pairs effortlessly with robust dishes like herb-crusted rack of lamb or aged cheeses, yet its sophistication shines brightest when savored alone or during special occasions where its intricate character can take center stage. With alcohol at 14.6%, it delivers power without heaviness—a rare feat in Napa Valley’s bold style—making it ideal for collectors or connoisseurs seeking a wine that reflects both place and patience.

At 97 points from top critics like Decanter and Jeb Dunnuck (and a near-perfect score from James Suckling), this Au Paradis stands out as one of Oakville’s most compelling expressions of Cabernet Sauvignon’s potential. Its seamless integration of fruit purity and oak influence sets it apart in California’s fine wine category—a testament to Peter Michael’s commitment to excellence—and ensures it remains a standout choice for those who appreciate wines built to age gracefully over decades.

Price reflects exclusivity; discounts do not apply to Fine & Rare selections.