Stag's Leap Wine Cellars Cask 23 Cabernet Sauvignon 2016
Stag's Leap Wine Cellars · Napa Valley, California, USA
At a glance
- Producer
- Stag's Leap Wine Cellars
- Region
- Napa Valley, California, USA
- Grape variety
- Cabernet Sauvignon
- Wine type
- Red
- Body
- Full-bodied and Bold
- Sweetness
- Dry
- Typical price
- $90-$130
Tasting profile
Rich notes of cassis, black cherry, graphite, and subtle smoky oak with fine-grained tannins
Evolution: Will develop deeper complexity with tertiary notes of leather, cedar, and earth emerging over the next decade
At peak: A harmonious blend of powerful fruit, silky tannins, and complex minerality resulting in long finish
Structure
- Acidity
- Medium-plus acidity providing freshness and balance
- Tannins
- Firm and well-structured
- Alcohol
- 14.5%
- Aging potential
- 25-35 years under proper cellaring conditions
Drinking window
- Peak drinking
- 2027 to 2048
- Optimal window
- 2024 to 2051
- Current status
- Approaching early maturity with robust structure
- Current condition
- Still evolving with firm tannins and pronounced dark fruit
Given the vintage 2016 Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon quality, famed producer reputation, and Cask 23's hallmark structure, this wine benefits from extended aging potential allowing integration of tannins and flavor complexity to fully blossom between 7-15 years after vintage.
Food pairing
Ideal with grilled ribeye, braised short ribs, aged cheddar, roasted game meats, and dishes with rich mushroom sauces.
Serving
- Serving temperature
- 16-18°C / 61-64°F
- Decant
- Yes (60-90 minutes) — To soften firm tannins and allow aromatics to open up before serving
Sustainability
Sustainability score: 7/10
Practices include water conservation measures, solar power use on estate, integrated pest management, and lightweight packaging initiatives.
Stag's Leap Wine Cellars is committed to sustainability, with certification from California Sustainable Winegrowing Alliance. They employ sustainable farming practices focused on water conservation and energy efficiency. While the wine must be distributed globally, the producer is actively reducing carbon footprint through renewable energy and eco-conscious packaging.