Paradigm has long been a hidden gem in Napa Valley. This stunning estate sits in a near perfect spot on the west Oakville bench, hallowed ground from world-class Cabernet Sauvignon. Right next door is Opus One's parcel of To Kalon. Other neighbors include Christian Moueix' Ulysses Estate, Martha's Vineyard, and Vine Hill Ranch. The relatively southern position in the valley and afternoon shade from the Mayacamas Range mean this estate is perfectly suited to producing classically styled, Bordeaux inspired, complex, layered and age worthy Cabernet. When this magical terroir is combined with the exceptional winemaking skills of one of the valley's truly icons, Heidi Peterson Barrett. Referred to by Robert Parker as "the Queen of Cult Cabernet," Barret's resume includes many decades at some of the region's top estates - Screaming, Dalla Valle. and more. Despite this pedigree and sheer quality, Paradigm has stayed somewhat under the radar. They don't have a big marketing machine behind them. The wines have rarely been submitted to writers and critics. Because of this the pricing of the wines has remained very reasonable compared to many of the $300-400 per bottle neighbors. The 2021 Paradigm hits a perfect balance between the natural intensity and power of Napa Cab with the nuance and complexity of a more refined, structural presence on the palate. Blackcurrant, mulberry, hints of mint and bay laurel, tobacco leaf. Inky and concentrated, but vibrant and perfumed. There's enough puppy far to make this wine accessible right away and it's delicious right out of the bottle. However, if you have ability and / or patience to lay some down in the cellar I have no doubt this wine will continue to improve over 5-8 years and will likely sail on to 2050. This is the real deal, no fluff, just incredible dirt, meticulous farming, expert winemaking.

An intense and brooding nose rife with blackberry compote and cream, black cherry lozenge, and hints of purple and white flowers. Behind that is orange zest, touches of cedar and oak spices along with a bit of sugary roasted tobacco. The palate, while firm and more than a little grippy is rich and supple, lots more fresh bramble fruits and tart cherry that's backed by floral and dark green herb sachets. There's such an impressive length and finish to this wine. There's a plushness and opulence to the fruit, but it doesn't go overboard into jammy or overly fruited territory. With the level of the tannin and opulence of the wine, I'm going to have to declare this is a fat potato wine, get that ribeye and just go bonkers.