At a glance

Producer

Screaming Eagle

Region

Napa Valley, California, USA

Grape variety

Cabernet Sauvignon

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$3,500 - $6,000 USD per bottle

Tasting profile

Blackcurrant, cedar, sage, graphite, with hints of vanilla and spice; concentrated and intense with layered complexity.

Evolution: Over the next 5 to 10 years, more secondary and tertiary notes such as leather, truffle, and earth will develop while tannins soften.

At peak: Rich, voluptuous palate with seamless tannins, deep complexity, and long, lingering finish reflecting quintessential Napa Cabernet elegance.

Structure

Acidity

Moderate acidity balanced to freshness

Tannins

Firm, finely grained tannins providing great structure

Alcohol

14.5%

Aging potential

Excellent, expected to evolve and improve for 20+ years

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2028 to 2038

Optimal window

2026 to 2040

Current status

Approaching initial maturity

Current condition

The wine is currently developing tertiary characteristics with rich fruit layers, firm tannins, and integrated oak influence.

Screaming Eagle 2016 is a legendary Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon vintage combining ideal ripeness with balance and finesse. Its high-quality tannic structure and acidity support decades of aging potential, with a drinking window extending 30+ years from vintage. The best drinking window aligns with classic maturation patterns for top-tier Napa Cabernet Sauvignons.

Food pairing

Perfect with rich red meats like filet mignon, prime rib, roasted game (venison or wild boar), mushroom risotto, aged hard cheeses (Parmigiano-Reggiano, aged Cheddar).

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (1-2 hours) — To allow the wine’s complex layers and tannins to open up and soften for optimal aromatic delivery and palate balance.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

The estate practices careful vineyard management focused on minimal intervention, soil health, water conservation measures, and uses solar energy to power winery operations. Packaging uses eco-friendly materials where possible.

While not fully certified organic or biodynamic, Screaming Eagle invests in sustainable viticultural practices that reduce chemical inputs and conserve resources. Their focus on energy efficiency and responsible packaging improves sustainability. The wine's high price and rarity make it less mass-produced, which can favor environmental stewardship. However, international demand and air/sea freight add to carbon footprint.