Frequently Asked Questions
Stag's Leap Wine Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon S.L.V. is a legendary Napa Valley wine epitomizing elegance and complexity. Born from the historic vineyard that claimed international fame at the 1976 Judgment of Paris, this wine continues to uphold its legacy with a rich, full-bodied profile. The 2020 vintage captivates with aromas of black fruits, ripe plum, cocoa, and baking spices, complemented by a palate of integrated oak, polished tannins, and a distinct minerality derived from volcanic soils. Perfectly structured for aging, this Cabernet promises sophistication over time while also being an ideal pairing for indulgent dishes such as Steak Diane, Duck Confit, or Mushroom Ravioli. A true icon of Napa Valley winemaking, Stag's Leap S.L.V. Cabernet Sauvignon offers a timeless reflection of craftsmanship and terroir.
Process & Profile
The S.L.V., or Stag's Leap Vineyard, has been at the heart of the winery since its inception in 1970. Grown in the Stags Leap District's volcanic soils, this 35-acre vineyard provides the ideal terroir for crafting this complex and structured Cabernet Sauvignon. The wine undergoes meticulous vinification using state-of-the-art techniques, followed by aging for 21 months in French oak barrels (100% new in some vintages). This careful process imparts layers of richness, minerality, and age-worthy elegance to every bottle. The S.L.V. Cabernet Sauvignon gained international fame when its 1973 vintage triumphed over legendary French Bordeaux in the 1976 Judgment of Paris, solidifying its place as a benchmark for exceptional Napa Valley wines.Tasting Notes
The S.L.V. Cabernet Sauvignon boasts a complex aroma profile that entices the senses with notes of black currants, mocha, dried figs, espresso, and a hint of violet. On the palate, flavors of blackberry reduction, dark chocolate, graphite, and plums emerge, balanced by elegant tannins and a vibrant minerality. The wine finishes with a lingering richness and notes of cocoa, making every sip memorable.What Makes It Special
- Historical Prestige: This wine achieved global recognition at the 1976 Judgment of Paris, a landmark moment for Napa Valley and American winemaking.
- Unique Vineyard Terroir: The volcanic soils of the S.L.V. vineyard add exceptional structure, concentration, and spicy intensity, often referred to as its "fire-like" character.
- Age-Worthiness: With its robust tannin structure and layered complexity, the S.L.V. Cabernet Sauvignon has remarkable aging potential—each vintage evolving gracefully over decades.
How to Enjoy
To fully experience the depth and elegance of the S.L.V. Cabernet Sauvignon, serve it at 60°F (15.5°C). Decant young vintages for 1-3 hours to unlock their full aromatic potential, while older vintages may require minimal decanting to remove sediment. Perfect Pairings:- Grilled Hangar Steak with Chimichurri
- Rack of Lamb with Thyme
- Duck Confit with Roasted Figs
- Mushroom Ravioli in Arrabiata Sauce
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the S.L.V. Cabernet Sauvignon special?
The S.L.V. Cabernet Sauvignon is sourced from Stag's Leap Vineyards, the winery's first vineyard, renowned for its unique terroir. Planted in 1970, it gained international fame during the 1976 "Judgment of Paris," where it outperformed top French wines. The vineyard's volcanic soils and careful winemaking produce wines with complex layers, minerality, and excellent structure.
What are the tasting notes of the 2021 S.L.V. Cabernet Sauvignon?
The 2021 vintage offers aromas of black currants, mocha, olive, figs, and hints of espresso. On the palate, it has a rich mouthfeel with flavors of dark chocolate, blackberry reduction, and an elegant touch of oak. It finishes with a dense core of balanced tannins, indicative of its age-worthy potential.
What foods pair well with the S.L.V. Cabernet Sauvignon?
This wine pairs beautifully with hearty dishes such as Steak Diane, Grilled Hanger Steak with Chimichurri, Duck Confit with Roasted Figs and Polenta, as well as Mushroom Ravioli with Arrabiata Sauce. For cheese lovers, rich and aged cheeses complement the wine's bold structure.
How long can the S.L.V. Cabernet Sauvignon be aged?
The S.L.V. Cabernet Sauvignon is celebrated for its aging potential. Stored properly in optimal conditions, it can age for decades, developing enhanced complexity and refined flavors over time.
What is the alcohol content of the S.L.V. Cabernet Sauvignon?
Like many Cabernet Sauvignons, the S.L.V. version has a relatively high alcohol content, typically ranging between 13.5% and 15%. This contributes to its bold and robust character.
How should I serve and decant this wine?
To fully appreciate its flavors, decant the S.L.V. Cabernet Sauvignon for at least 30 minutes before serving. Decanting aerates the wine, softening its tannins and unlocking its aromas. Serve it at a temperature of about 60–65°F (15–18°C) for the best experience.
What are the key characteristics of Cabernet Sauvignon as a varietal?
Cabernet Sauvignon is a full-bodied red wine with high tannins, medium acidity, and complex flavors. Common notes include blackcurrant, blackberry, vanilla, tobacco, and spice, often imparted by oak aging. It is a dry wine with outstanding aging potential, making it a favorite among wine connoisseurs.
What is the history behind the S.L.V. vineyard?
S.L.V. was planted in 1970 and gained global recognition when its 1973 vintage triumphed over French wines in the famed "Judgment of Paris." The vineyard's volcanic soils and microclimate contribute to its distinctive minerality and intensity, which define the wine's iconic profile.
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