Experience the pinnacle of Napa Valley winemaking with **Stag's Leap Wine Cellars Cask 23 Cabernet Sauvignon**, a legendary blend of fruit from the iconic S.L.V. and FAY vineyards. Revered since its inception in 1974, Cask 23 epitomizes elegance and depth, delivering a sensory masterpiece with layers of blackcurrant, blueberry compote, and black cherry, complemented by subtle notes of tobacco, dark chocolate, and anise. Brought to life through meticulous aging in French oak barrels, this wine features velvety tannins and an enduring finish that balances richness with restraint. Perfect for refining in the cellar for decades or savoring now with prime cuts of grilled meats, Cask 23 is a true collector's treasure and a testament to Napa Valley's world-class terroir.
Process & Profile
The Stag's Leap Wine Cellars Cask 23 Cabernet Sauvignon embodies the pinnacle of winemaking in Napa Valley, California. First crafted in 1974 when celebrated winemaker André Tchelistcheff identified a uniquely exquisite lot of grapes, this wine has since become a global benchmark. Cask 23 is a harmonious blend of fruit exclusively selected from two legendary vineyards: S.L.V., known for its bold structure and dark fruits, and FAY, renowned for its aromatic finesse and elegance. These vineyards thrive in the Stags Leap District, a terroir that showcases the best of Napa Valley's rich soils and climate. The 2021 vintage continued this tradition with careful farming, maturation for 21 months in new French oak barrels, and meticulous vinification.
Tasting Notes
The 2021 Cask 23 presents an exquisite sensory journey. Aromas of dark currants, blueberry compote, black cherry, and hints of tobacco and spice captivate the nose. On the palate, flavors of blackberry, anise, and dark chocolate unfold, supported by refined tannins and a dense mid-palate richness. The wine finishes with a persistent and velvety texture, marked by minerality and complex layers that evolve with each sip. Designed for both immediate enjoyment and long-term aging, Cask 23 promises to deepen in complexity over the next 50 years.
What Makes It Special
Cask 23 holds a unique place in the world of wine for its unparalleled quality and storied history. Originating in 1976 when S.L.V. stunned the world at the Judgment of Paris, this wine is crafted from the estate's finest vineyard blocks. The winemaking philosophy—often described as "an iron fist in a velvet glove"—delivers a balanced yet powerful expression of Cabernet Sauvignon. Its aging potential, thanks to its bold tannins and acidity, ensures that each bottle becomes a collector's treasure. Each sip reflects the legacy of Napa Valley and the artistry of Stag's Leap Wine Cellars.
How to Enjoy
Cask 23 is best enjoyed with thoughtful preparation. If consumed young, decant the wine for at least 2 hours to unlock its aromatic bouquet and structural elegance. Pair it with richly flavored dishes, such as grilled ribeye steak, braised short ribs, or aged hard cheeses, to complement its dark fruit and savory undertones. For special occasions, let it age gracefully in a temperature-controlled cellar, where it will develop even more nuanced flavors of cedar, tobacco, and earthiness. Serve at a temperature between 60–65°F for the ultimate tasting experience.
Indulge in the mastery of Stag's Leap Wine Cellars through Cask 23 Cabernet Sauvignon—a true Napa Valley masterpiece that combines history, innovation, and sensory brilliance in every bottle.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Cask 23 unique compared to other wines by Stag's Leap Wine Cellars?
Cask 23 is a meticulously crafted blend of Cabernet Sauvignon from the finest lots of the FAY and S.L.V. vineyards, offering unmatched complexity, elegance, and depth. Originally inspired by a single exceptional barrel in 1974, it has become one of Napa Valley's most iconic wines. Its signature balance combines richness, structure, and long aging potential, earning it a legendary status among collectors.
What are the key tasting notes of Cask 23?
Cask 23 boasts flavors of dark fruits such as blackcurrant, black cherry, and plum, enhanced by hints of violet, mint, and graphite. Additional layers of complexity include notes of vanilla, roasted coffee, chocolate, and hazelnut, attributed to its aging in French oak barrels. Each vintage also showcases subtle minerality and freshness, distinctive of its terroir.
What is the aging potential of Cask 23?
Cask 23 is recognized for its exceptional aging potential. Though it is approachable when young, it is designed to evolve gracefully for several decades, revealing more nuanced flavors and greater complexity as it matures.
What foods pair best with Cask 23?
This wine pairs beautifully with rich, elaborate dishes such as grilled red meats, hearty stews, game, and hard cheeses. It also complements French-inspired cuisine and fine barbecue, making it an excellent choice for special occasions.
How is Cask 23 produced?
Cask 23 is aged for approximately 18-21 months in new French oak barrels, ensuring depth and richness. The blend highlights the best rows and barrels from both the FAY and S.L.V. vineyards. These vineyards offer complementary characteristics, with S.L.V. contributing structure and spicy intensity, while FAY adds aromatic richness and suppleness.
What is the history of Cask 23?
Cask 23 was first created in 1974 when winemaker André Tchelistcheff identified an extraordinary lot of wine from the S.L.V. vineyard. Named after the wooden cask in which it aged, Cask 23 has since become synonymous with excellence and sophistication, representing the best of Napa Valley winemaking tradition.
What is the ideal serving temperature for Cask 23?
For optimal enjoyment, serve Cask 23 at a temperature of approximately 60-65°F (15-18°C). This allows its complex flavors to develop fully without masking its refined structure.
Is Cask 23 suitable for collectors?
Yes, Cask 23 is highly sought after by collectors due to its limited production, historical significance, and exceptional aging potential. It is a prime example of Napa Valley's winemaking artistry and is frequently regarded as a benchmark for California Cabernet Sauvignon.
Where can I purchase Cask 23?
Cask 23 is available at select fine wine retailers, upscale dining establishments, and directly from the winery. Due to its limited production, availability may vary by vintage.