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%
90 Points
Rich and voluptuous with ripe raspberry, cherry, and plum, layered with hints of lavender, fig compote, and exotic spice. Concentrated and complex, the palate is a balanced interplay cocoa, and a hint of espresso, creating both richness and intrigue. Vibrant acidity and silky tannins that contribute heft and length that coat the palate with luscious ripeness that keeps on giving.
94 Points
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.
Gold Medal
Light pink in color with aromas of watermelon, cranberry, orange rind, and fresh spring flowers that leap from the glass. The palate offers more peach, strawberry, and melon, with an intriguing note of rose and hibiscus. It's crisp with just the perfect hint of red fruit, and delicate whisper of strawberry that gives goosebumps.
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