Courtney Benham
2020 Cabernet Sauvignon
, Stags Leap District
Napa Valley

94 Points, James Suckling

Classic Stags Leap District in every glass, this Cabernet is fruit-forward and rich with plenty of black fruit, backed by Bing Cherry, Raspberries, Elderberry, Violets, Herbs de Provence, Bay Laurel, and layers of Toffee and chocolate.  Full-bodied with firm, with chewy tannins. This wine is dark, firm and focused.  It's been said there won't be a lot of 2020 Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon around in years to come.  Collectors are already snapping up the few beautiful wines that were made.

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%

Tasting Notes  PDF

More About Courtney Benham