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[DNU] SLV Gift of Legend

Cabernet Sauvignon
96 POINTS - Wine Spectator

INTRODUCING SLV GIFT OF LEGEND

Experience the artistry and legacy of Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars with the S.L.V. Gift of Legend—a tribute to Napa Valley’s unparalleled terroir and our role in writing wine history.

This luxurious collection, presented in an elegantly crafted leather and velvet gift box, features a bottle of our prestigious 2021 S.L.V. Cabernet Sauvignon, crafted from the vineyard that won the groundbreaking Judgment of Paris. It also includes two Riedel wine glasses etched with the Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars logo, and a commemorative coin. The coin is a rare and coveted item that unlocks an extra display of our legendary hospitality when presented at the beginning of a visit at our Napa Valley estate, adding an element of exclusivity to this already luxurious gift.

Perfect for connoisseurs and those marking life’s special occasions, the S.L.V. Gift of Legend embodies elegance and distinction. Unveil the extraordinary. Embrace the legend.

VINEYARDS & WINEMAKING

The 2021 S.L.V. Cabernet Sauvignon hails from the historic Stag's Leap Vineyard, where vines rooted in the unique fire-borne volcanic soils of Napa Valley produce wines with unparalleled depth and complexity. Crafted by winemaker Marcus Notaro, the S.L.V. represents the origins of the Stag’s Leap legacy, specifically showcasing the estate’s oldest vines from Block 4, planted in 1972, alongside Blocks 2A, 3A, 1A, and 3B.

This wine reflects the elegance of the vineyard, with its signature black currant, mocha, and espresso aromas leading into a luxurious palate of dark chocolate and blackberry reduction. Aged for 21 months in 100% new French oak barrels and bottled with minimal intervention, the 2021 vintage is regarded as one of the highest quality in the last decade.

VINTAGE

The 2021 vintage offered perfect conditions for crafting an iconic wine. A near-perfect summer—characterized by moderate daytime temperatures and cool evening breezes—gave the fruit an impeccable balance of ripeness and structure. The vintage saw lower yields due to dry winter conditions, yet it resulted in highly concentrated, flavorful grapes. Winemaking decisions were meticulous, ensuring that only the finest fruit contributed to this extraordinary expression of Cabernet Sauvignon.

TASTING NOTES

This 2021 S.L.V. Cabernet Sauvignon opens with rich aromas of black currants, figs, and olive, framed by subtle hints of mocha and espresso. The dense, balanced palate is luxurious, with layers of dark chocolate, blackberry, and oak leading to a lingering, structured finish. Perfectly paired with special occasions, this wine promises to age gracefully for years to come.

FOOD PAIRINGS

Enjoy with Steak Diane, Grilled Hangar Steak with Chimichurri, Duck Confit with Roasted Figs and Polenta or Mushroom Ravioli with Arrabiata Sauce.

Analysis
Blend
100% Cabernet Sauvignon
Aging
21 months 100% new French Oak
Alcohol
14.8%
TA
0.52 g/100ml
pH
3.81

Rich and well-fruited, but with a touch of restraint, as boysenberry, blackberry and cassis notes move slowly and steadily, flanked by suave hints of alder and warm earth and backed by subtle echoes of violet and savory on the finish, with a gorgeous mouthfeel. Drink now through 2040. —James Molesworth

96 POINTS - Wine Spectator