At a glance

Producer

Stags' Leap Winery

Region

Napa Valley, USA

Grape variety

Cabernet Sauvignon

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$50-$70 per 750ml bottle (retail average, Wine-Searcher 2024)

Tasting profile

Black currant, cassis, blackberry, with notes of graphite, cedar, vanilla oak, and subtle herbal nuances; firm tannins and structured mouthfeel

Evolution: Fruit will evolve towards more complex tertiary notes such as leather, tobacco, dried herbs, and earthiness over 5-10 years

At peak: At peak, balanced silky tannins with layered dark fruit, mature oak spice, fine-grained texture, and harmonious acidity

Structure

Acidity

Moderate to high acidity contributing to freshness and longevity

Tannins

Firm, well-structured tannins typical of Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, expected to soften with 5-8 years of cellaring

Alcohol

Medium-high, approximately 14.5%-15% ABV, well integrated for vintage

Aging potential

15-20 years from vintage with proper cellaring

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2028 to 2044

Optimal window

2026 to 2047

Current status

Needs aging

Current condition

Youthful, tannic structure still resolving with strong acidity and concentrated fruit

The peak window 2028-2035 accounts for sufficient bottle aging allowing primary tannins to soften and tertiary aromas to develop. Early drinking before 2026 risks experiencing tannic tightness and oak dominance. After 2035, the wine will enter gradual decline as fruit fades and tannins soften further, losing vibrancy.

Food pairing

Classic pairings include grilled ribeye steak, roast lamb with herbs, mushroom risotto, aged cheddar, and hearty stews. As the wine matures, pair with braised short ribs, game meats, and smoked dishes to complement evolved tertiary notes.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (1-2 hours) — To soften firm tannins and open the bouquet for primary fruit and oak complexity

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 6/10

Focus on sustainable farming practices, water conservation, and habitat preservation

Stags' Leap Winery implements recognized sustainable viticulture practices aimed at reducing environmental impact while maintaining grape quality.