Description
Vintage Notes
Continuing the drought from 2020 and 2021 with another winter of low rainfall in 2022, the drier soils and warm February and March temperatures brought on budbreak early which carried through to early flowering, fruit set and veraison. The weather during bloom was fairly steady and yields were only slightly below average, mainly due to smaller berries and clusters. Overall, the summer was cooler than 2021 but a prolonged heat event occurred in early September, condensing the harvest window to eight days, finishing on September 17th.
Winegrowing Notes
Located in the heart of the Oakville AVA’s famed red dirt in Napa Valley, ‘Au Paradis’ is exactly where its name translates, “In Heaven.” Planted in the foothills on the east side of the valley on a raised, gently sloping plateau, the Bordeaux varietals develop into a classic style with silky tannins and deep red fruit. Between 500 and 600 feet, 26 acres of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Merlot look down on the valley and across to the Mayacamas Mountains. The slope and hillside location provide ideal sun exposure during the day and help develop the lush, intense fruit one would expect from such a magnificent property.
Winemaker’s Tasting Notes
The deep ruby 2022 ‘Au Paradis’ exhibits an attractive array of black currant, violets, blackberries and dried red rose petals with black tea and garrigue accents. The silky entry and dense, rich mid-palate are supported by plush, velvety tannins and lead to a long, lingering finish. This is a refined and polished Cabernet Sauvignon from Oakville that will age well for years but will be approachable in the next five years.
77% Cabernet Sauvignon, 21% Cabernet Franc, 2% Merlot
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