2007 Château Paradis "Terre des Anges" Côteaux d'Aix en Provence

92-95 points Robert Parker: "The 2007 Coteaux d'Aix en Provence Paradis is composed of Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah and Grenache, and its dense purple hue is accompanied by a sumptuous bouquet of sweet new oak, blackberry liqueur, espresso, and a hint of spice box. This wine possesses amazing concentration, full-bodied richness, and a wallop of toasty, smoky wood. It should age effortlessly for 10-15 years." (02/09) K&L readers please take note: On the Robert Parker website, the review above references Tardieu-Laurent as the producer of the 2007 Château Paradis "Terre des Anges." In fact, Michel Laurent (who is more famously known as the owner of Rhône negociant Tardieu-Laurent) is not the producer or owner of Château Paradis. More specifically, Michel Tardieu consults with Château Paradis and their winemaking team in order to help the domaine realize exceptional and terroir driven wines. It appears that Michel's expertise and passion have paid off, given the exceptional quality of wines being produced past several vintages at Château Paradis. Albeit a bit confusing, the 2007 Château Paradis "Terre des Anges" as reviewed above and with the corresponding rating is not a negoc wine like those offered in the Tardieu-Laurent portfolio. Rather, it is a domaine wine that is grown, vinified and bottled at Château Paradis, and is therefore labeled as such. (55% Syrah, 30% Grenache, 15% Cabernet Sauvignon) 14.5% abv.