97 Points                                                    
New release of Heid Barrett's Paradigm Oakville Cabernet!

Heidi Barrett is well-known as the original winemaker for Screaming Eagle, but Paradigm is her secret sleeper from Oakville in Napa Valley. The brilliant new Paradigm 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley is gorgeous now, but the patient may see it rival the wonderful 1999 Paradigm as this winery's best Cab ever.

97 Points Decanter: "The Paradigm 2021 Cabernet is a blend of 91% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Merlot, 2% Cabernet Franc, and 3% Petit Verdot and was fermented in stainless steel with a small percentage of whole berries included. Winemaker Mark Fasi explains that pressing off the wine before it goes dry helps to soften the tannins. The wine is then aged 18–20 months in approximately 50% new French oak. The Paradigm Cabernet Sauvignons are medium-bodied and exude utmost elegance, showcasing soaring tannins that are assertive yet beautifully integrated and framed by crisp, juicy acidity. The palate reveals pure and gorgeous red berry fruit, complemented by a panoply of brown spices, wild herbs like sage, and floral notes of lilacs and violets. This wine is absolutely pure, brimming with energy and tension, and delivers a stunningly refined expression. A remarkable effort, embodying balance, vitality, and sophistication. Truly impressive. The winemaker is legendary Napa icon Heidi Barrett."

Winemaker Tasting Notes:  "The 2021 vintage produced delicious concentrated wines in smaller quantity than normal. The Paradigm 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon is black raspberry colored  with lovely open aromatics of black cherry, berry, and plum layered with a perfect balance of new and used French Oak. Our blend uses several blocks of Cabernet, Merlot, and Cab Franc from our Paradigm Estate vineyard in Oakville. The effect is one of layered complete flavors and a delicious expression of how beautiful Oakville wine can be. Flavors match the aromas. Tannins are moderate yet add a nice chewy texture and the length goes on several seconds. This is a beautiful wine that will age surely for decades but is delish now."