Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars S.L.V. Cabernet Sauvignon

Drinking Stag's Leap Wine Cellars S.L.V. is like sipping Napa Valley history. First planted by the Warren Winiarski family in 1970, the S.L.V. vineyard gave birth to the wine that won over critics at the 1976 Judgement of Paris. While much of the vineyard has been replanted, Block 4, from the 1972 planting, still remains. Combined with the younger vines, the volcanic vineyard produces fruit that is well-structured, spicy and intensely concentrated. The 2004 vintage, while still a bit restrained in its youth, offers plenty of complexity with a bit of aeration, including enchanting aromas of black cherries, sandalwood, truffles and nutmeg. Firm on the palate, mouth-filling raspberry and black cherry fruit mingle with accents of licorice, cola and cedar. Refined and earthy tannins are highlighted by a bright acidity, lingering through to a persistent finish.