At a glance

Producer

Stag's Leap Wine Cellars

Region

Napa Valley, California, USA

Grape variety

Cabernet Sauvignon (with small amounts of Merlot, Malbec, Petit Verdot)

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Smooth

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$70-$85 USD per 750ml bottle (as of mid-2024 retail, pristine condition)

Tasting profile

Aromas of black cherry, plum, currant, graphite, subtle floral and sweet spice notes; palate delivers ripe dark fruit, vanilla, cedar, and a touch of mocha with polished tannins and a lingering finish

Evolution: Over next 3–5 years, primary fruit will give way to more savory, earthy, and tobacco notes, with greater aromatic complexity and smoother tannins

At peak: At peak, expect lush black fruit balanced with secondary notes of leather, baking spices, and delicate oak integration; the structure will be more harmonious and the finish long and persistent

Structure

Acidity

Moderate; maintains freshness and will help preserve balance as wine ages

Tannins

Medium, fine-grained; resolving well and softening, giving a plush mouthfeel

Alcohol

Integrated; typical for Napa Cabernet (14.5% ABV range) but balanced by fruit and oak

Aging potential

8–12 years from vintage (drinking through ~2030)

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2024 to 2027

Optimal window

2022 to 2029

Current status

Ready now, still developing

Current condition

Approaching maturity with integrated fruit, emerging tertiary notes, and supple structure

The 2024–2027 period represents peak drinking as tannins achieve optimal integration, fruit is still vibrant, and tertiary complexity begins to emerge. During this window, the wine expresses both freshness and development—afterwards, fruit subsides and more tertiary, sometimes less vibrant, flavors come forward, reducing overall harmony.

Food pairing

Classics include grilled or roasted lamb, ribeye steak, duck breast, and aged hard cheeses. Current profile pairs excellently with slow-cooked short ribs, prime rib, mushroom risotto, or rosemary-spiced roast chicken. As wine matures and tannins soften, complement with earthy, herb-driven dishes (e.g., braised beef with root vegetables, lentil cassoulet, or wild mushroom polenta).

Serving

Decant

Yes (30 minutes) — The wine has medium tannins that are resolving, which can benefit from aeration to enhance its plush mouthfeel and overall complexity.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Sustainable farming, water management, cover cropping, biodiversity encouragement

Stag's Leap Wine Cellars is certified under Napa Green, indicating robust sustainable practices. While not certified organic or biodynamic, they use many eco-friendly methods and have taken meaningful steps to limit environmental impact. The overall sustainability level exceeds most California wineries but falls short of the most stringent organic producers.