The 2021 Blankiet Paradise Hills Proprietary Red Wine is a notable offering from Napa, California, that exemplifies the region's renowned capability to produce exceptional red blends. This wine is composed predominantly of Cabernet Sauvignon (86%), with contributions from Merlot (9%), Cabernet Franc (3%), and Petit Verdot (2%).
Renowned critics have praised this vintage for its complexity and balance. Antonio Galloni of Vinous awarded it an exceptional score of 99, describing it as "mind-blowing" and "captivating," with flavors of "black cherry, herbs, new leather, licorice, and spice." Galloni emphasized the wine's "crystalline purity" and "notable freshness," highlighting its harmonious integration of floral accents and bright acids.
Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate gave the wine a solid 94+, noting its "full-bodied and intense" character. The review pointed out the presence of "mocha and toasted-nut shadings" layered over "deep cassis and somewhat earthy-loamy notes." The wine is described as "broad and expansive in the mouth" with "supple tannins" that lead to a "lingering, velvety-textured finish."
Jeb Dunnuck, scoring the wine at 97, referred to it as "absolutely stunning," lauding its "iron-laced darker fruits" and nuances of "chocolaty herbs, graphite, and leafy tobacco." He noted its "dense, concentrated mid-palate" and "ripe yet focused tannins," projecting an impressive longevity of over 25 years.
The Wine Independent also rated it 97, highlighting the wine's "deep garnet-purple" color and vibrant profile. The review mentions "pure notes of crushed blackcurrants, boysenberries, and wild blueberries," complemented by "lavender, tapenade, and Darjeeling tea." The finish is described as "long and savory," with "very fine-grained tannins" and "seamless freshness."
Overall, the 2021 Blankiet Paradise Hills Proprietary Red Wine is a well-crafted blend that offers a sophisticated and balanced drinking experience, promising both immediate enjoyment and potential for aging.