Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
The flagship wine, the 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon Vineyard 29 Estate, is an extraordinary effort. Performing even better than it did last year from barrel, this 100% Cabernet Sauvignon spent 20 months in French oak barrels (90% new). The nose reveals notes of graphite, ink, cassis, and flowers. Superbly concentrated with impeccable purity and balance, this full-bodied wine is one of both power and elegance. If I didn’t know better, I would guess it was from Stags Leap rather than the west side north of St. Helena ... it’s that refined and gracious. The stunning length and suppleness of the tannin suggest this 2007 should easily last for 20-25 years.
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.