The 2016 Blankiet Paradise Hills Proprietary Red Wine from the esteemed Napa region in California is a compelling blend, primarily composed of Cabernet Sauvignon (85%), with Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot completing the mix. This wine has garnered acclaim from several notable reviewers, with Vinous awarding it an impressive 98 points, describing it as "magnificent" and highlighting its "tremendous intensity" and "total sense of poise." Antonio Galloni of Vinous remarks that "all the elements are simply in the right place," suggesting that this wine has great potential for future development.
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate also rates this wine highly, giving it 97+ points. The review highlights its "deep garnet-purple" color and complex aroma profile, which includes "crushed black cherries, cassis, and blackberry pie" along with subtler notes of "cigar boxes, menthol, cardamom, and dark chocolate." The wine's finish is described as "very long and perfumed," indicating a well-rounded and sophisticated experience.
Jeb Dunnuck echoes these sentiments, also awarding the wine 97 points. Dunnuck describes the wine as "straight-up brilliant," with an "incredibly pure and elegant" profile. He notes the presence of "complex blue fruits (cassis and blueberries), tobacco leaf, violets, and spring flower-like aromas and flavors." Dunnuck emphasizes the wine's "ultra-fine tannins" and "great finish," suggesting it has the ability to age gracefully for up to two decades.
In summary, the 2016 Blankiet Paradise Hills Proprietary Red Wine is a remarkable representation of Napa winemaking, praised for its depth, complexity, and elegance. With its high ratings and potential for aging, it stands as a noteworthy choice for enthusiasts and collectors alike.