Indulge in the luxurious Terlato Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon Stags Leap, a striking expression of Napa Valley's premier Stags Leap District. This full-bodied wine captivates the senses with bold layers of blackcurrant, cassis, and hints of cocoa, seamlessly intertwined with subtle notes of vanilla and cedar. Renowned for its velvety tannins and refined structure, this Cabernet Sauvignon delivers a harmonious balance of power and elegance, amplified by the district's hallmark rocky soils and cool nighttime breezes. Each sip boasts a lingering, rich finish with impeccably integrated acidity, making it perfect for savoring now or cellaring for years to come.
Process & Profile
This wine hails from the Stags Leap District, one of California's most prestigious Cabernet Sauvignon appellations, known for its ideal climate and soil for producing world-class wines. The Cabernet Sauvignon grapes are carefully cultivated, harvested at peak ripeness, and vinified with precision. The wine is aged in high-quality oak barrels, which impart layers of complexity and enhance its refined structure. The result is a full-bodied, fruit-forward wine with well-integrated tannins and exceptional aging potential.
Tasting Notes
Terlato Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon Stags Leap offers a luxurious taste experience:
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Nose: Captivating aromas of cassis, cocoa, blueberry, and subtle notes of vanilla.
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Palate: A symphony of rich berry flavors, including blackberry and black cherry, complemented by hints of espresso, dark chocolate, and baking spices. The finish is long and structured, with firm, elegant tannins.
What Makes It Special
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Terroir Excellence: The Stags Leap District is renowned for producing Cabernets with unique minerality and finesse, thanks to its volcanic soils and ideal microclimate.
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Artisan Craftsmanship: Terlato Vineyards applies time-honored winemaking techniques with a focus on quality and detail, ensuring every bottle captures the essence of the region.
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Aging Potential: With its robust structure and depth, this wine can age gracefully for years, developing even more nuanced flavors over time.
How to Enjoy
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Serving: Decant the wine for at least 30 minutes to allow it to breathe and unfold its full bouquet of aromas. Serve at a cool 60–65°F (15–18°C) in large wine glasses.
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Food Pairings: This Cabernet is a perfect companion to rich, bold dishes, such as grilled ribeye steak, lamb chops, or a hearty mushroom risotto. It also pairs beautifully with aged cheeses like Gouda or Cheddar.
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Occasions: Whether celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a quiet evening, this wine is suited to moments that call for elegance and indulgence.
Terlato Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon Stags Leap is more than just a wine; it's an experience that connects you to the heritage of one of Napa Valley's most celebrated regions. Savor its richness today or let it age to discover its full potential.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the tasting notes of this wine?
Terlato Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon Stags Leap offers a rich, full-bodied profile with flavors of blackcurrant, blackberry, and black cherry. It often has secondary notes of tobacco, vanilla, and oak due to barrel aging, balanced by well-integrated tannins.
Is this wine dry or sweet?
This wine is dry. Cabernet Sauvignon, including this Stags Leap varietal, typically has little to no residual sugar, offering a bold structure and a smooth, dry finish.
What food pairs well with this wine?
The bold flavors and tannins in this wine pair wonderfully with hearty dishes like grilled steak, roasted lamb, or braised short ribs. It also complements aged cheeses and even dark chocolate desserts.
What is the aging potential of this wine?
Cabernet Sauvignon from Stags Leap is known for its excellent aging potential. With proper storage, this wine can age gracefully for 10-15 years, allowing the tannins to mellow and secondary flavors to develop.
Should I decant this wine before serving?
Yes, decanting is recommended. Decanting the wine for at least 30 minutes can help soften tannins, aerate the wine, and bring out its complex aromas and flavors.
What is unique about Cabernet Sauvignon from the Stags Leap District?
The Stags Leap District in Napa Valley is renowned for producing rich, approachable Cabernet Sauvignon. Its unique terroir, characterized by volcanic soils and a warm climate, results in wines with a distinct combination of ripe fruit, elegance, and well-structured tannins.
Can I serve this wine at room temperature?
For the best flavor profile, serve this wine at about 60–65°F (16–18°C). Slightly cooler than room temperature enhances its structure and balance.
What glassware should I use for Cabernet Sauvignon?
A wide-bowled red wine glass is ideal for this wine. The broad surface area allows for optimal aeration, enhancing the wine's aromas and flavors.
How does this varietal compare to other Cabernet Sauvignons?
Cabernet Sauvignon from Stags Leap is often described as more elegant and balanced compared to other Napa Valley Cabernets. It offers the bold flavors typical of Cabernets but with a refined texture and smooth tannins.
What is the alcohol content of this wine?
Terlato Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon Stags Leap typically has an alcohol by volume (ABV) ranging from 13.5% to 15%, reflecting its full-bodied nature.