Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars S.L.V. Cabernet Sauvignon 2019

Winery Background and History

Founded in 1970, Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars gained international acclaim when its 1973 S.L.V. Cabernet Sauvignon won the 1976 Judgment of Paris, a blind tasting that elevated Napa Valley wines to global prominence. Located in the Stags Leap District of Napa Valley, the winery is renowned for producing elegant and age-worthy Cabernet Sauvignons that reflect the unique terroir of the region.

Producer and Winemaker

Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars operates under the guidance of winemaker Marcus Notaro, who brings extensive experience and a deep understanding of Napa Valley’s terroir. Notaro’s philosophy focuses on creating wines that balance richness with elegance, capturing the essence of the vineyard while showcasing the varietal’s character. His meticulous approach ensures that each vintage of S.L.V. Cabernet Sauvignon reflects both the winery’s legacy and the unique conditions of the growing season.

Vineyards and Micro Climate

The S.L.V. (Stag’s Leap Vineyard) is situated in the Stags Leap District of Napa Valley, characterized by volcanic soils with excellent drainage, contributing to the development of complex flavors in the grapes. The region’s unique microclimate, influenced by its proximity to the San Pablo Bay, offers warm days and cool nights, ideal for cultivating Cabernet Sauvignon with balanced acidity and ripe tannins. This terroir imparts distinctive characteristics to the wine, including vibrant fruit flavors and a refined structure.

Vinification & Aging Methods

The 2019 S.L.V. Cabernet Sauvignon underwent fermentation in stainless steel tanks to preserve the purity of the fruit. Malolactic fermentation occurred entirely, enhancing the wine’s texture and complexity. The wine was aged for 21 months in 100% new French oak barrels, carefully selected to complement the vineyard’s unique characteristics and add subtle layers of flavor.

Tasting Notes

The 2019 S.L.V. Cabernet Sauvignon offers generous dark fruit aromas of black currant, plum, and candied fig, along with hints of cocoa dust. On the palate, the wine presents dense yet polished tannins that meld with layers of dark fruit, fig, and violet, leading to a long, elegant finish. This vintage showcases the hallmark characteristics of the S.L.V. vineyard, balancing power with finesse.

Food & Wine Pairing

This Cabernet Sauvignon pairs beautifully with dishes such as grilled ribeye steak, braised short ribs, or roasted lamb with rosemary. The wine’s structure and depth complement the richness of these dishes, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Service Methods and Temperatures

To fully appreciate the 2019 S.L.V. Cabernet Sauvignon, serve it at a temperature between 16-18°C (61-64°F). Decanting the wine for about 30 minutes before serving can help open up its aromas and flavors, providing a more expressive tasting experience. Using appropriate glassware, such as a Bordeaux-style glass, will further enhance the wine’s characteristics.

Storage and Aging Potential

The 2019 S.L.V. Cabernet Sauvignon possesses the structure and balance to age gracefully over the next 20 to 25 years. When stored in optimal conditions—a cool, dark place with consistent temperature and humidity—the wine will develop additional complexity, with tertiary aromas and flavors emerging over time, rewarding those who choose to cellar it.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

• Cabernet Sauvignon: 100%

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

The alcohol content of the 2019 S.L.V. Cabernet Sauvignon is 14.5%.

Scores

• James Suckling: 96

• Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate: 95

• Jeb Dunnuck: 95