2018 Stags Leap District Cabernet Sauvignon

ABOUT STAGS LEAP DISTRICT

Nestled in the heart of Napa Valley, lies the bountiful region of Stags Leap District, where the legacy of Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars began. This premier wine-producing region, known for its unique terroir and exceptional wines, was made internationally renowned by our S.L.V. Cabernet Sauvignon at the famed Judgment of Paris Wine Tasting Competition.

VINEYARDS AND WINEMAKING 

Winemaker Marcus Notaro crafted this wine exclusively for the tasting room. The wine is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, primarily from the Hirondelle vineyard located just South of S.L.V. in the  Stags Leap District. The wine was aged for 19 months in 60% new French oak. 

VINTAGE 

The 2018 season began with productive, late season rains that translated into strong vine growth throughout the spring. Cool temperatures in late spring resulted in an extended bloom period and very good fruit-set. Except for a hot July, the summer was beautiful with temperatures neither too hot nor too cool – a true Goldilocks zone. Cool temperatures returned in September that slowed ripening and extended hang-time, resulting in very even ripening with great flavors at lower sugar levels. We completed the harvest for our Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay – and began picking our red grapes – a good month later than in 2017 (and two weeks later than normal). Overall, this was a year of exceptional fruit quality producing wines with expressive fruit character.  

TASTING NOTES

This vintage of Stags Leap District Cabernet Sauvignon delivers brambly aromas with notes of crushed cherries and plums, along with a touch of espresso. The wine has a rich texture with velvety tannins and Bing cherry flavors on the finish.