At a glance

Producer

Stag's Leap Wine Cellars

Region

Napa Valley, Napa Valley, California, USA

Grape variety

Cabernet Sauvignon (98%), Petit Verdot (1%), Malbec (1%)

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Bone Dry

Typical price

$65-$75 (average retail price for 2018 vintage, based on Wine-Searcher and top US merchants)

Tasting profile

Concentrated dark blackcurrant, cassis, ripe plum, hints of cedar, graphite, and espresso with subtle herbal notes and pencil lead minerality; tannins prominent; finish long and persistent

Evolution: Fruit will gain complexity with tertiary notes of tobacco, leather, and forest floor developing progressively; tannins will mellow and integrate

At peak: Balanced expression of ripe fruit, integrated oak, refined tannins, and complex layered savory characteristics

Structure

Acidity

Medium to medium-high acidity, providing freshness and excellent aging backbone

Tannins

Firm, ripe tannins with good grain and density; will soften with 5-7 years of bottle age

Alcohol

Approximately 14.5%, fully integrated without overpowering fruit or structure

Aging potential

15+ years from vintage with proper cellaring, possibly longer given producer reputation and vintage quality

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2028 to 2043

Optimal window

2025 to 2046

Current status

Begins to be approachable with some cellaring; not recommended for immediate casual drinking

Current condition

Structurally tight tannins, rich but still youthful; medium-high acidity providing good lift; alcohol well integrated

The 2028-2037 peak window corresponds to when the firm tannic structure softens and integrates with the wine’s vibrant acidity and concentrated fruit, allowing full expression of complex secondary and tertiary aromas and flavors. During this period, the wine exhibits optimal balance between freshness, fruit vibrancy, and nuanced complexity. After 2037, tertiary notes deepen further but fruit freshness diminishes gradually.

Food pairing

Pairs excellently with rich grilled or roasted red meats such as prime rib, lamb rack, or venison. Also pairs well with aged hard cheeses, mushroom-based dishes, and dishes featuring truffle or smoky barbeque sauces. As the wine matures, it complements braised short ribs and game stews with earthy components.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (1-2 hours) — To soften upfront firm tannins, allow concentrated aromas to open, and enhance integrated flavors

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Focus on sustainable viticulture practices including water conservation, cover cropping, and integrated pest management

Stag's Leap Wine Cellars is recognized for sustainable farming and environmental stewardship; moderate score reflects premium production with some inevitable energy-intensive aging and transport considerations