At a glance

Producer

Frog's Leap Winery

Region

Rutherford AVA, Napa Valley, California, USA

Grape variety

Cabernet Sauvignon (100%)

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$50-$65

Tasting profile

Fresh blackcurrant, cassis, cedar, and subtle baking spices with bright acidity and firm tannins.

Evolution: With age, will develop tertiary notes of tobacco, leather, cedar, and earthy nuances while softening tannic grip.

At peak: Rich complexity with harmonized fruit, mature tannins, and nuanced oak integration.

Structure

Acidity

Balanced, moderate to high

Tannins

Firm and finely grained

Alcohol

Approx. 14.1% ABV

Aging potential

15–20 years from vintage, with peak maturity around 8-12 years

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2026 to 2043

Optimal window

2023 to 2046

Current status

Approaching drinkability, early maturity phase

Current condition

Vibrant fruit with good structure; tannins still sturdy but approachable

The 2018 vintage was solid for Rutherford/Napa Cabernet Sauvignon with balanced ripeness and good acidity. Organic farming practices contribute to wine clarity and expression. The structure will support long aging, with the best drinking window starting around 5 years from vintage and peaking between 8-12 years as secondary flavors emerge and tannins soften.

Food pairing

Grilled or roasted red meats, lamb, mushroom-based dishes, aged cheddar or gouda, and hearty stews.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (1-2 hours) — To allow tannins to soften and aromatics to open up for enhanced drinking experience.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 9/10

Sustainable dry farming methods with minimal irrigation, use of cover crops for soil health, solar energy utilizes winery operations, biodegradable packaging materials used, and strict waste reduction programs in place.

Frog's Leap exemplifies high sustainability standards through longstanding organic certification and sustainable farming ethos. The winery minimizes environmental impact with dry farming, solar power, and eco-friendly packaging. Their emphasis on local sourcing and efficient logistics further improves carbon footprint, making this wine highly sustainable within its category.