Frequently Asked Questions
Discover the epitome of Napa Valley elegance with Clos Du Val Cabernet Sauvignon from the renowned Stags Leap District. This exquisite wine captures the essence of its legendary terroir with vibrant layers of blackberry, cassis, and mulberry, complemented by velvety notes of toffee, vanilla, and a hint of chocolate. Crafted with meticulous care, it features well-integrated tannins and a silky texture, delivering a remarkable balance of power and finesse. Aged for 20 months in French and Hungarian oak, this wine epitomizes sophistication, pairing beautifully with hearty dishes like grilled meats and game. Celebrate the storied history of Clos Du Val—an icon since its debut at the famed 1976 Judgment of Paris—with this timeless expression of Napa Valley excellence.
Process & Profile
Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, the Clos Du Val Cabernet Sauvignon showcases the best of Stags Leap District. Sourced primarily from the winery's iconic Hirondelle Vineyard, the wine is a blend of 93% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3.5% Merlot, and 3.5% Cabernet Franc, with average vine ages exceeding 30 years. To enhance its striking character, the wine is aged in French oak barrels, with 40% being new, for 20 months. This approach imbues the wine with depth, structure, and a well-rounded palate. Key features of the profile include:- Region: Stags Leap District, Napa Valley, California.
- ABV: Approximately 14.4%.
- Aging: 20 months in French oak (40% new).
Tasting Notes
The Clos Du Val Cabernet Sauvignon delivers a multi-layered sensory experience. On the nose, expect inviting aromas of black cherry, blueberry, dark chocolate, coffee, and cedar. The palate is rich and luxurious, with flavors of ripe black fruits, toffee, cocoa, and hints of spice. Silky tannins provide structure while maintaining a vibrant, fresh finish. Summary of flavors and aromas:- Primary: Black cherry, blackberry, and boysenberry.
- Secondary: Cocoa, coffee, and cedar.
- Oak Influence: Vanilla and toffee, adding a smooth, luxurious touch.
What Makes It Special
Clos Du Val is no ordinary wine; its heritage and precision set it apart:- Legacy: Established in 1972, Clos Du Val gained global recognition during the historic 1976 Judgement of Paris when its Cabernet Sauvignon competed among the world's best.
- Terroir: The Stags Leap District is renowned for its perfect microclimate and soils that yield concentrated, complex wines.
- Craftsmanship: The winery honors Old World traditions while utilizing modern techniques to create balanced, terroir-driven wines celebrated for their timeless elegance.
How to Enjoy
To fully appreciate this Cabernet Sauvignon, follow these tips:- Serving Temperature: Decant and serve at 63-65°F (17-18°C) to enhance its aromas and flavors.
- Food Pairings: The bold tannins and dark fruit notes make it an ideal match for red meats, such as marinated ribeye steak, BBQ short ribs, or a charred gruyere burger. Vegetarian options like mushroom stroganoff or pizza with tomato and herbs also complement the wine beautifully.
- Aging Potential: With firm tannins and vibrant acidity, this wine will age gracefully for 10-15 years, developing even greater complexity over time.
Conclusion
Clos Du Val Cabernet Sauvignon Stags Leap District is a testament to the winery's commitment to producing elegant and timeless wines. From its expert blending to its powerful yet refined flavor profile, this wine is a standout choice for any occasion. Whether you're laying it down for future enjoyment or savoring it tonight over a gourmet meal, this Cabernet Sauvignon promises an unparalleled experience.Frequently Asked Questions
What are the primary tasting notes of Clos Du Val Cabernet Sauvignon?
This Cabernet Sauvignon offers rich aromas of blackberry, cassis, and violet, with flavors of cherry, pomegranate, and nutmeg on the palate. Its vibrant fruit is balanced by polished tannins, hints of dark chocolate, and a smooth, long finish.
Is Clos Du Val Cabernet Sauvignon dry or sweet?
Clos Du Val Cabernet Sauvignon is a dry wine. Like most Cabernet Sauvignons, it is full-bodied with medium-to-high tannins and noticeable acidity, making it a classic choice for lovers of bold, structured red wines.
What food pairings work best with Clos Du Val Cabernet Sauvignon?
This wine pairs well with hearty dishes such as grilled or roasted meats, steak, lamb, and aged cheeses. It also complements dishes with earthy or smoky flavors, such as mushroom risotto or barbecued ribs.
How long can I age Clos Du Val Cabernet Sauvignon?
Clos Du Val Cabernet Sauvignon has excellent aging potential. The 2021 vintage, for example, is recommended to be enjoyed between 2028 and 2038, as it develops further complexity and depth over time.
What is the alcohol content of Clos Du Val Cabernet Sauvignon?
The alcohol content of this wine typically falls around 14.5% ABV.
What makes Clos Du Val Cabernet Sauvignon unique?
Clos Du Val's Cabernet Sauvignon reflects the distinct terroir of the Stags Leap District in Napa Valley. Known for its Bordeaux-inspired style, the wine combines elegance and vibrancy, showcasing the harmonious balance of ripe fruit, acidity, and refined tannins. The estate's commitment to quality, with winemaking rooted in tradition and innovation, contributes to its reputation for producing world-class wines since its founding in 1972.
Can Clos Du Val Cabernet Sauvignon be decanted?
Yes, decanting is recommended to enhance its flavors and aromas. For optimal enjoyment, decant it for about 1-2 hours before serving, especially for younger vintages, as this helps soften the tannins and bring out its complexity.
Is Clos Du Val Cabernet Sauvignon part of a blend?
Yes, Clos Du Val Cabernet Sauvignon typically includes small amounts of other Bordeaux varietals such as Merlot, Malbec, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot, which add complexity and depth to the wine's flavor profile.
What awards has Clos Du Val Cabernet Sauvignon received?
The 2021 vintage of Clos Du Val Cabernet Sauvignon received a 94-point rating from Wine Enthusiast, praised for its seductive oak spices, plush mouthfeel, and abundance of red and black fruits. Additional accolades include 93 points from James Suckling and 92 points from Wine Spectator.
How should I serve Clos Du Val Cabernet Sauvignon?
This wine is best served at a temperature of approximately 60–65°F (16–18°C). Pouring it at this temperature allows its flavors and aromas to fully develop. Use large-bowled glasses to enhance the wine's bouquet.
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