Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars S.L.V. Cabernet Sauvignon 2018

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

Under the guidance of winemaker Marcus Notaro, Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars continues its legacy of crafting wines that balance richness with elegance. Notaro’s extensive experience and deep understanding of Napa Valley’s terroir guide his meticulous approach to winemaking, ensuring that each vintage authentically expresses the character of the vineyard and the varietal.

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 2018 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 20 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 2018 S.L.V. Cabernet Sauvignon has generous aromas of violet, plum dark fruit, cocoa dust, and graphite. On the palate, the wine has a rich, gravelly structure with pure fruit, dusty tannins, and a long, savory finish. The tannin structure, dark fruit, and pleasing minerality point to this wine’s ability to age.

Food & Wine Pairing

This Cabernet Sauvignon pairs beautifully with dishes such as dirty rice with andouille sausage, birria beef tacos, or mushroom ravioli with arrabbiata sauce. 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 2018 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 2018 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 2018 S.L.V. Cabernet Sauvignon is 14.5%.

Scores

• James Suckling: 97

• Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate: 95

• Wine Spectator: 94