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%
Gold Medal
Generously packed with black cherry, cola, cassis, and plum that all intermingle together in a creamy, velvety texture with great layering, finishing with delightful notes of oak and spice. Persistent, well-defined structure, wonderfully balanced.
95 Point Vintage
Opens with explosive aromatics of cassis, black plum, and sweet tobacco leaf, layered with warm baking spices (cinnamon and cardamom) and a light, complex ferrous mineral note. The Palate and mouthfeel is broad and sumptuous, bursting with flavors of juicy cherry pie, dark raspberry, and boysenberry compote.
The Finish carries a luxurious, savory presence showing undertones of leather, mocha, and milk chocolate, framed by supple, superfine tannins that melt into a long, polished finish.
98 Points
Deep purple hue and an alluring aromatic profile of fresh blue fruits and delicate violets. On the palate, it delivers a seamless and layered texture, framed by supple, polished tannins and a refined sense of balance. Elegantly structured, it offers remarkable purity and finesse, finishing with graceful length and poise.
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