Winemaker Notes
The 2021 vintage continues our signature profile of a slightly softer, and approachable Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon. This rich and refined wine does not require years of further aging to achieve ideal balance and enjoy upon release. The full-bodied structure is a hallmark. The wine opens with stunning aromas of blackberry, black currant, and toasty notes of cedar; the palate is concentrated with bold, velvety flavors of black cherry and a hint of spice. Intense, concentrated fruit and fine grained tannins with beautifully balanced acidity extends to an elegant finish.
Professional Ratings
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Tasting Panel
Representing the first vintage of the Black Stallion North Coast Collection, this lush red is easily quaffable. Surrounded by lavender, notes of black cherry and dark chocolate take the lead on the bold, athletic, full-bodied palate. A suede coat of spiced, toasted oak; ripe boysenberry; and raspberry is accented by sleek tannins.
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James Suckling
Well-balanced, dense and textural with aromas of dark berries, chocolate and sliced raw beef. Full-bodied with chewy tannins and a powdery texture on the palate, with a robust frame shaping the palate and the spicy, cocoa-powder finish.
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Wine Enthusiast
This wine is rich, with aromas of dark plum, Bing cherry, blackberry coulis, dried florals and bittersweet chocolate on the nose. The flavors on the palate are dark plum, sour cherry and molasses, interlaced with dried tobacco, orange rind and a dry finish with gripping tannins. Pair with grilled Wagyu beef.
One of the most prestigious wines of the world capable of great power and grace, Napa Valley Cabernet is a leading force in the world of fine, famous, collectible red wine. Today the Napa Valley and Cabernet Sauvignon are so intrinsically linked that it is difficult to discuss one without the other. But it wasn’t until the 1970s that this marriage came to light; sudden international recognition rained upon Napa with the victory of the Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars 1973 Cabernet Sauvignon in the 1976 Judgement of Paris.
Cabernet Sauvignon undoubtedly dominates Napa Valley today, covering half of the land under vine, commanding the highest prices per ton and earning the most critical acclaim. Cabernet Sauvignon’s structure, acidity, capacity to thrive in multiple environs and ability to express nuances of vintage make it perfect for Napa Valley where incredible soil and geographical diversity are found and the climate is perfect for grape growing. Within the Napa Valley lie many smaller sub-AVAs that express specific characteristics based on situation, slope and soil—as a perfect example, Rutherford’s famous dust or Stags Leap District's tart cherry flavors.