Region and Vineyards
Sourced entirely from Napa Valley, the 2018 Paraduxx Proprietary Red embodies the diversity of the region’s microclimates and soils. The warm days and cool nights of Napa’s varied sub-AVAs ensure optimal ripening, while the complexity of vineyard sources allows each varietal in the blend to shine. The region’s volcanic, alluvial, and loam-rich soils provide the structure and nuance essential for crafting a harmonious blend of multiple grape varieties.
The 2018 vintage was characterized by a long, moderate growing season, allowing for extended hang time and excellent phenolic development. These conditions delivered fruit of exceptional quality, with deep color, supple tannins, and vibrant acidity. Paraduxx benefits from both estate vineyards and long-term grower relationships, ensuring consistency and quality in each component of this expressive cuvée.
Winemaking
The 2018 blend is composed of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Zinfandel, 10% Petit Verdot, 6% Petite Sirah, 6% Syrah, 4% Cabernet Franc, and 3% Malbec, combining Bordeaux varietals with classic California expressions like Zinfandel and Syrah. Each lot was vinified separately to preserve varietal integrity before blending.
The wine was aged for 18 months in French oak barrels, 40% new and 60% second-fill, to enhance aromatic complexity and textural refinement without overpowering the fruit. At 14.5% alcohol, Paraduxx 2018 achieves a balance between richness and elegance. A modest acidity (TA: 6.00 g/L, pH: 3.72) contributes to its freshness and structure, making it both accessible and age-worthy.
Tasting Notes
- Color: Deep, dark garnet with a vibrant core and a reflective rim.
- Aroma: Layers of blackberry, black cherry, blueberry, currant, and cocoa powder rise from the glass, followed by nuances of saddle leather, cinnamon, and clove.
- Palate: Rich and voluminous, the wine delivers plush dark berry fruit framed by polished tannins. Secondary notes of anise, vanilla, sweet tobacco leaf, and cracked black pepper build complexity, leading to a long, juicy dark berry finish.
Did you know?
Paraduxx is the only wine in the Duckhorn portfolio crafted exclusively as a red blend. Its name is a nod to its dual inspiration—a paradox of tradition and innovation—and its label features a pair of ducks in flight, symbolizing motion, balance, and harmony. It was one of the earliest Napa blends to unite Zinfandel with Bordeaux varietals, long before the “red blend” category became a staple of American wine culture.
Wine Pairing Ideas
- Barbecued short ribs with espresso glaze: Matches the wine’s smoky richness and dark fruit depth.
- Spice-rubbed pork shoulder: Echoes the wine’s peppery and anise-laced notes.
- Duck breast with cherry-port sauce: A classic pairing that plays on the wine’s structure and berry core.
- Aged cheddar or Manchego: Cheese with a firm texture and umami-rich profile to complement the wine’s complexity.
