Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars S.L.V. Cabernet Sauvignon 2014 1.5L

Winery Background and History

Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars, founded in 1970 in Napa Valley, California, gained international acclaim when its 1973 S.L.V. Cabernet Sauvignon won the 1976 Judgment of Paris tasting, surpassing esteemed French wines. This victory showcased the potential of Napa Valley wines on the global stage. The winery is renowned for producing wines that embody the balance between richness and elegance, often described as having “an iron fist in a velvet glove.” The S.L.V. (Stag’s Leap Vineyard) was the winery’s first vineyard, planted in 1970, and continues to be a source of exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon.

Producer and Winemaker

The 2014 S.L.V. Cabernet Sauvignon was produced by Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars under the guidance of Winemaker Marcus Notaro. The winery’s philosophy focuses on expressing the unique terroir of their estate vineyards through meticulous vineyard management and winemaking practices that balance tradition with innovation.

Vineyards and Micro Climate

The S.L.V. vineyard, planted in 1970, is situated in the Stags Leap District of Napa Valley. This area benefits from a unique microclimate characterized by warm days and cool nights, which allows for optimal ripening of Cabernet Sauvignon grapes while preserving their acidity. The vineyard’s volcanic soils contribute to the wine’s structure, concentration, and spicy intensity.

Vinification & Aging Methods

The 2014 S.L.V. Cabernet Sauvignon underwent fermentation in stainless steel tanks, followed by malolactic fermentation to enhance its complexity. The wine was then aged for 21 months in French oak barrels, with 90% being new oak. This aging process imparted subtle spice notes and contributed to the wine’s overall balance and depth.

Tasting Notes

The 2014 S.L.V. Cabernet Sauvignon offers generous aromas of cocoa powder, graphite, blackberry, and baking spice. A broad, silky entry fills the mouth with dark berry fruit and dark chocolate flavors. The palate is rich and concentrated, with round tannins that are present yet inviting. The wine’s structured tannins, rich fruit, and pleasing minerality point to its ability to age gracefully.

Food & Wine Pairing

This wine pairs exceptionally well with hearty dishes such as osso buco, filet mignon, or a wild mushroom risotto. Its rich structure and complex flavors complement the depth and savoriness of these dishes, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Service Methods and Temperatures

To fully appreciate its complexity, serve the 2014 S.L.V. Cabernet Sauvignon at a temperature between 16-18°C (61-64°F). Decanting the wine for about an hour before serving is recommended to allow it to open up and reveal its full aromatic and flavor profile.

Storage and Aging Potential

The 2014 S.L.V. Cabernet Sauvignon has the potential to age gracefully for 15-20 years from its vintage date. Proper storage in a cool, dark place with consistent temperature and humidity will allow the wine to develop additional complexity and depth over time.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

The 2014 S.L.V. Cabernet Sauvignon is composed entirely of Cabernet Sauvignon grapes sourced from the S.L.V. estate vineyard.

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

The alcohol content of the 2014 S.L.V. Cabernet Sauvignon is 14.5%.

Scores

• Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate: 95 points. The review highlights the wine’s dense purple color and notes of crème de cassis, licorice, and spring flowers, describing it as full-bodied and opulent, with a drinking window extending over the next 20-25 years.

• Jeb Dunnuck: 95 points. Described as reminiscent of a Saint-Julien, with notes of blackcurrants, damp earth, tobacco, and lead pencil. Praised for its medium to full-bodied richness, ripe tannins, and beautiful purity, suggesting it can be enjoyed now or cellared for 15+ years.

• James Suckling: 93 points. Aromas of iron and terracotta complement the currant and spice character, with firm and silky tannins leading to a subtle finish. Recommended to age for at least three to four years before opening.

• Wine Spectator: 91 points. Features a harmonious mix of supple dark berry, licorice, spice, cedar, mocha, and gravelly earth notes, maintaining a persistent push on the finish. Best enjoyed from 2020 through 2030.

• Wine & Spirits: 91 points. Notes the rocky soils of the S.L.V. vineyard produced a Cabernet with fresh cut to its rich black fruit, suggesting cellaring for further development.