Château Paradis Casseuil 2018 (OWC6)

Winery Background and History

Château Paradis Casseuil is nestled in the Entre-Deux-Mers region of Bordeaux, France. The estate’s name derives from the local commune of Casseuil and the vineyard parcel known as “Les Vignes du Paradis” (The Vines of Paradise). Historically, the property belonged to Château Rieussec before being acquired by Domaines Barons de Rothschild (Lafite) in 1970. Since then, it has benefited from the Rothschild family’s commitment to excellence, combining traditional Bordeaux winemaking techniques with modern innovations to produce wines that reflect the unique terroir of the region.

Producer and Winemaker

Under the stewardship of Domaines Barons de Rothschild (Lafite), Château Paradis Casseuil is managed with meticulous attention to detail. The winemaking team focuses on sustainable viticulture and precise vineyard management to ensure the highest quality grapes. Each varietal is vinified separately, allowing for careful blending that captures the essence of the terroir. The team’s philosophy emphasizes balance, elegance, and the expression of fruit purity, resulting in wines that are both approachable and reflective of their origin.

Vineyards and Micro Climate

The estate spans approximately 53 hectares in the rolling hills of Entre-Deux-Mers. The vineyards are planted on clay-limestone soils, providing excellent drainage and mineral richness. The region benefits from a temperate maritime climate, with warm summers and mild winters, influenced by the nearby Atlantic Ocean. These conditions are ideal for cultivating Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, allowing the grapes to achieve optimal ripeness while retaining freshness and acidity, contributing to the wine’s balance and complexity.

Vinification & Aging Methods

The 2018 vintage underwent careful hand-harvesting of each grape variety at optimal ripeness. Fermentation occurred in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks to preserve the fruit’s freshness and aromatic intensity. Post-fermentation, the wine underwent malolactic fermentation to enhance its texture and complexity. A portion of the wine was aged in French oak barrels, imparting subtle oak nuances without overpowering the fruit character. This approach ensures a harmonious integration of flavors and a balanced structure.

Tasting Notes

Château Paradis Casseuil 2018 exhibits a deep crimson-purple hue. The nose is subtle and elegant, offering aromas of dark berries, spice, and a hint of toasted oak. On the palate, the wine is generous and well-structured, featuring flavors of redcurrants, cherry, and cedar, complemented by soft tannins and a touch of vanilla. The finish is long and balanced, with a fresh, aromatic quality that reflects the wine’s finesse and complexity.

Food & Wine Pairing

This versatile Bordeaux pairs well with a variety of dishes, including grilled meats, roasted poultry, and hearty stews. Its balanced structure and fruit-forward profile complement dishes like roast lamb, beef bourguignon, or mushroom risotto. The wine’s elegance also makes it a suitable companion for aged cheeses and charcuterie boards. Its adaptability ensures it enhances both casual meals and formal dining experiences.

Service Methods and Temperatures

To fully appreciate its aromatic complexity and texture, decant Château Paradis Casseuil 2018 for 30 minutes before serving. Serve at a temperature of 16–18°C (60–64°F) in Bordeaux-style glasses to enhance its bouquet and flavor profile. This wine is ready to enjoy now but can also benefit from short-term aging. Proper serving conditions will highlight its balance and depth.

Storage and Aging Potential

Château Paradis Casseuil 2018 is crafted for immediate enjoyment but possesses the structure to age gracefully for 3 to 5 years. When stored in optimal conditions—cool, dark, and with consistent humidity—the wine will develop additional complexity, with softened tannins and evolved tertiary aromas, enhancing its overall depth and character. Regular monitoring is recommended to enjoy the wine at its peak.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

• Merlot: 70%

• Cabernet Sauvignon: 30%

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

13%