94 Points, James Suckling
Will age gracefully for another 10-15 years. Definitely cellar worthy.
VINEYARDS
Like many Napa Valley AVAs, Stags Leap District is particularly known for its world class Cabernet Sauvignon. The soil here includes loam and clay sediments from the Napa River and volcanic soil deposits left over from erosion of the Vaca Mountains. Each block was carefully planted for optimal sun exposure and produce some of the finest fruit in the valley.
WINEMAKING NOTES
Maintained moderate temperature during fermentation until dry, then basket pressed into 40% new oak for 18 months.
VINTAGE
Yields were cut short in 2020, particularly for red wines, as the intensely dry, low-yielding growing season helped deliver some intensely concentrated grapes, many were able to produce some deeply impressive wines capable of long-term cellaring.
Consulting Winemaker: Keith Emerson
Varietal Composition: 100% Cabernet Sauvignon
Appellation: Stags Leap District, Napa Valley
Harvest Date: September 24th, 2020
Aging: Aged in 40% new French oak for 18 months.
Brix: 24.1
pH: 3.78
TA: 5.8 g/L
Alcohol: 14.1%
91 Points, Wine Spectator
This is a big wine with luxurious texture. Deep red-purple with aromas of black currents, blackberry, plum, chocolate, earthy forest floor, licorice, graphite, and subtle floral notes of violet, spice and cracked pepper. The palate is full, structured and balanced with blackberry, currant, black cherry fruit with notes of earth, firm acid and silky tannins. Finishes big with blackberry fruit and peppery spice.
90 Points, Wine Enthusiast
Loaded with old-vine character in every sip. Combining 42% Carignane, 38% Mourvèdre and 20% Zinfandel, from vines over 130 years in age. Dark red in color with black cherry, cassis, pomegranate, plum, cocoa, and highlights of cranberry, black pepper, tar and earth. Velvety mouthfeel, great structure with black cherry, pomegranate, chocolate, tar and peppery spice. Satisfies the palate with a long spicy fruit driven finish.
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