2017 Peter Michael Cabernet Sauvignon Au Paradis Oakville Napa

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The 2017 growing season began with abundant rainfall, ending California’s long drought. Spring weather was cool, delaying bud break slightly. Warmer weather in mid-May insured even blooming and an average sized fruit set. Vines were vigorous thanks to the winter rains. Meticulous canopy management and fruit thinning brought the crop into optimal balance. Warmer than normal conditions after veraison accelerated ripening and required judicious irrigation to mitigate dehydration. As harvest approached, the return of cooler conditions allowed the fruit to gradually reach perfect ripeness. Picking was completed on September 29 with an average sized crop, giving us a vintage of exceptional quality.

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. 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:  With a near-black ruby color and violet highlights, 2017 Au Paradis is packed with aromas of black currant and crème de cassis with meaty nuances and touches of plum brandy, vanilla, allspice and red rose. The flavors mirror the nose with juicy black currant and additional notes of fresh leather, black olive, framed with plentiful, but fine-grained tannins with iron-like background minerality. The mouth feel is round, refined and complex with an incredible length of finish. Approachable now, the wine will reward five years of cellaring and will continue to age gracefully for two decades or more.