At a glance

Producer

Stag's Leap Wine Cellars

Region

Stags Leap District, Napa Valley, California, USA

Grape variety

Cabernet Sauvignon (100%)

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$120-$180

Tasting profile

Blackcurrant, graphite, cedar, baking spices, leather, and hints of earth with a layered mid-palate

Evolution: Fruit will become more integrated, with tertiary notes of truffle, tobacco, and forest floor emerging over 5-10 years

At peak: Smooth tannins, intense depth, and complex bouquet with balanced oak and earthy finish

Structure

Acidity

Moderate to high, good freshness for aging

Tannins

Firm, ripe, well-integrated but with aging grip

Alcohol

14.5%-15.0%

Aging potential

15+ years with potential to reach 20+ years in ideal conditions

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2028 to 2055

Optimal window

2024 to 2058

Current status

Early drinking with graceful evolution; tannins firm but approachable

Current condition

Currently showing youthful structure and concentrated fruit, still benefiting from decanting

This vintage’s balanced acidity and firm tannins, combined with quality fruit from the Fay Vineyard situated in a distinct terroir, allow long cellaring. The wine will soften and show complexity after 7-10 years, sustaining a prime drinking window through the mid-2030s.

Food pairing

Grilled or roasted red meats, hearty stews, mature cheeses, and dishes with herbal notes such as rosemary or thyme

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (60-90 minutes) — To open up firm tannins and reveal layered aromatics

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 7/10

Water-efficient irrigation methods, solar energy usage, composting and reduced chemical inputs, eco-friendly packaging initiatives

Stag's Leap Wine Cellars maintains progressive sustainability practices consistent with Napa Green certification. They optimize vineyard water use and have integrated solar power on site. While exports add to carbon footprint, packaging innovations and supply chain efficiencies mitigate overall impact, leading to a strong sustainability profile relative to premium Napa producers.