Gamble Family Vineyards, Napa Valley (California) 2016

 The Paramount is a Bordeaux-style blend that, in this vintage, is almost equal parts Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Merlot (with a splash of Petit Verdot).   It is a hefty Napa Valley red that can easily play with the other big boys.  But it’s about more than power and heft, showing complex layers of blackberry, raspberry and black cherry fruit, with hints of mocha, fresh coffee beans and a generous touch of oak vanillin.  Drink now if you must, but this is a keeper that will easily improve in a temperature-controlled cellar over the next 20 years or so.