2019 Stags' Leap Winery Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley

Winemaker Notes: For Christophe Paubert, Winemaker and General Manager at Stags’ Leap Winery, the identity of a wine is found through the terroir. Christophe’s career has spanned the industry from sales to winemaking, and his impressive background includes positions at Chateau d’Yquem and Gruaud-Larose as well as projects in Chile, Spain and Washington State. But it was the terroir of Stags’ Leap that drew him to California.

Tasting Notes

Sourced from primarily cooler appellations within Napa Valley, this 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon shows bright red berry fruits on the nose, alongside delicate floral notes of lavender and violet. Baking spice notes of caramel, black pepper, and clove also come through, an indication of the well-integrated oak character. On the palate, juicy cassis, blackberry, and red cherry are supported by hints of delicate red rose, tobacco leaf, and earthy forest floor, giving this Cabernet a richness and layered texture. Crispy, firm tannins provide a pleasurable mouthfeel with refreshing fruit and balanced acidity, developing into a long, smooth, dry finish. Incredibly approachable upon release, this dazzling Cabernet can be paired well alongside a variety of culinary dishes.

Vintage

The 2019 harvest started one to two weeks later than previous years, mostly due to February rains, but because the vines were in their winter dormancy, it did not affect the 2019 crop. Spring continued to be wet with some rain during flowering, followed by cool temperatures that allowed the grapes to mature gradually. Most grapes ripened at lower sugars, thanks to the extended, cool growing season, and winemakers were pleased with the full flavors, fresh acidity, and superb balance of the 2019 fruit. The resulting crop showed a modest yield with a slightly more compact structure and extract than in previous years.

CRITICAL ACCLAIM


James Suckling - "Lovely aromas of blackcurrant, blackberry, ground spice and anise. Full-bodied with fine, silky tannins. Juicy and vibrant on the palate with lovely balance and intensity."