2020 FAY Cabernet Sauvignon
ABOUT FAY
The FAY vineyard is where the Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars story began. Established by pioneering grape grower Nathan Fay in 1961, it was the first planting of Cabernet Sauvignon in what is now the Stags Leap District.
VINEYARDS & WINEMAKING
FAY vineyard remains one the great Napa Valley vineyards, producing fruit with an abundance of supple red and black berry character, voluptuous perfume and a luscious, fine-grained texture. The grapes were primarily sourced from Blocks 4, 3A, 3B, 8C2, 1, 6, 2B and 2A, which combined, give the wine its classic red-fruit tones and aromatic top notes as well as its structure.
VINTAGE
A dry and hot growing season, coupled with a global pandemic and multiple wildfires, made 2020 a year we won’t forget. Rain right at bloom interrupted fruit set and provided a “natural fruit thinning” that brought the crop in balance relative to the dry soil conditions. The warm weather this vintage produced wines with a riper character. We are very pleased with the resulting wines from the 2020 vintage (although there won’t be as many bottles) to carry our legacy forward.
TASTING NOTES
The 2020 FAY Cabernet Sauvignon delivers complex aromas of blue fruit, licorice, Armarena cherry and floral spice. The palate is loaded with fresh fruit flavors and has a savory and creamy mid-palate.
FOOD PAIRINGS
Try pairing this estate-grown Cabernet with Maitake mushroom risotto, maple-glazed salmon or grilled buffalo burgers with caramelized onion & Havarti cheese.
This perfumed and perfectly balanced wine brings a little restraint to the table. Raspberry, blackberry and mint flavors are braced in a lively way by good fruit acidity and moderate tannins for a slight grip in the texture. The wine will be easily paired with savory, meaty dishes and worth cellaring. Best from 2025–2035.