At a glance

Producer

Stag's Leap Wine Cellars

Region

Napa Valley, California, USA

Grape variety

Cabernet Sauvignon (with small amounts of Merlot, Petit Verdot, and Malbec blended in typical for Artemis)

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Smooth

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$65-$80 USD (retail, 2024 estimates)

Tasting profile

Rich aromas of blackcurrant, ripe plum, blackberry, dark cherry, and subtle hints of mocha, vanilla, and sweet oak. Palate is medium-bodied with plush fruit, cocoa, gentle baking spice, and supple tannins.

Evolution: Fruit will become more restrained as tertiary notes (cedar, tobacco, dried herbs) emerge; tannins will soften further, yielding a smoother, more harmonious mouthfeel. Oak influence will better integrate.

At peak: Peak years will balance ripe dark fruit with developed savory notes, polished tannins, rounded texture, and well-blended oak, showing classic Napa elegance without excessive power.

Structure

Acidity

Medium; provides freshness and structure, helping preserve vibrancy over next 4-6 years.

Tannins

Medium, fine-grained; present but softening with time, accessible now but will fully resolve by 2025-2027.

Alcohol

Moderate-high (14-14.5% ABV); currently well integrated with ripe fruit and soft extraction.

Aging potential

Will evolve positively for 8-10 years from vintage; best enjoyed before 2030 for freshness and balance.

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2025 to 2028

Optimal window

2024 to 2030

Current status

Drink or Hold

Current condition

Young but approachable, showing primary Cabernet fruit character with moderate integration of oak and tannin.

The 2025-2028 window marks the period when the robust primary fruit subsides just enough to showcase developing complexity and seamless structure, but before loss of vibrancy. Tannins, acid, and oak should be fully harmonized, offering full aromatic and palate maturity. After peak, the wine risks diminishing fruit definition and increased dominance of drying, tertiary notes.

Food pairing

Classic pairing: Grilled or roasted beef, lamb chops, or aged steak with rosemary; also works with peppercorn sauce, portobello mushrooms, and root vegetable gratins. At peak maturity, pair with roast duck, braised short rib, or mature hard cheeses. As wine evolves and softens, transition to less fatty meats and more earthy dishes, such as lamb shank or wild mushroom risotto.

Serving

Decant

Yes (30 minutes) — The wine has medium tannins that are softening, and decanting will help to aerate it, enhancing its aromas and flavors while allowing the tannins to integrate further.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 6/10

Water conservation, integrated pest management, energy efficiency; ongoing efforts in vineyard ecology management.

Stag's Leap Wine Cellars is recognized for commitment to sustainable practices verified by CCSW, though not industry-leading in organic/biodynamic methods. Ongoing improvements in environmental stewardship, but overall carbon impact remains average for Napa operations.