STAG’S LEAP WINE CELLARS
Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars is considered to be a Napa Valley first-growth estate. In 1976 at the “Tasting of Paris” the 1973 Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars S.L.V. Cabernet Sauvignon was up against four Bordeaux wines including first-growths Chateau Mouton-Rothschild and Chateau Haut-Brion in a “blind tasting”.
History was made when the Stag’s Leap Cab was judged as the Best putting California wines on the global map forever. Recognized and respected throughout the world the wines of Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars have been poured for presidents and royalty alike. Founded in 1970, the winery has a long and prestigious history that is beautifully documented by the “Hands of Time” exhibit, which is made up of hand casts of more than thirty-five prominent vintners who at one time or another worked at Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars and “lent a hand” in the winery’s success. We had the great pleasure of touring this gorgeous estate and tasting the fabulous wines with good friend and Hospitality Manager, Karla Casey-Jensen.
The newly renovated Visitors Center houses a tasting room that is a showcase for the beautiful wines that are created there. Art work and historical displays line the walls of this spacious area. Outside is the FAY Overlook which serves as a perfect tasting area offering sweeping views of the estate vineyards and the Stags Leap Palisades. The Caves are magnificent and feature The Great Room, a stunning space for receptions and The Round Room, which is the “beating heart” of the cave, where a pendulum serves as a metaphor for the passing of time, and the aging of wine. The Cellarius Kitchen is a world class exhibition kitchen and dining room used for groups and private parties.
Winemaker Marcus Notaro is passionate about producing the world-class Cabernet Sauvignon-based wines that Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars is known for. Our “Absolute Must Tries”: the 2012, Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars, Cask 23, Cabernet Sauvignon which received 97-100 points from “Wine Advocate” is amazing; the 2012, S.L.V. Cabernet Sauvignon that got 92-94 points from Wine Advocate, the beautiful 2012, FAY Cabernet Sauvignon, 93-96 points from Wine Advocate; and the 2013, Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars Acadia, Sauvignon Blanc!
All represent the perfection that Macrus Notaro and everyone at the winery strives for. Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars is always at the top of our list of wineries to visit and one of our favorite stops in Napa…be sure to check it out…it will be one of yours, too! Please visit www.cask23.com or www.smwe.com for more information!