2018 Stag's Leap Wine Cellars 'SLV' Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley, USA
Regular price $175.00
If you don't already know the story, here is a super condensed version - On May 24, 1976, a blind wine tasting took place in Paris where the best of Napa Valley was up against the best of French wines. To the surprise of the world, the 1973 Stag's Leap Wine Cellar S.L.V. Cabernet was judged as the best, beating out the famous First Growth of Bordeaux, and forever change the way people think of Napa Wines.
97 Points Robert Parker
The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon S.L.V., a barrel sample, reveals a deep garnet-purple color and expressive notions of blackberry preserves, black cherry coulis and warm cassis with suggestions of eucalyptus, dark chocolate, lavender and tobacco leaf. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is tightly wound with black fruit and savory layers, supported by a rock-solid frame of grainy tannins and just enough freshness, finishing long and lifted.
97 Points James Suckling
This is one of the best SLVs I have tasted with total balance and structure that highlights what was possible in 2018. It’s full-bodied, yet tight and poised, with layer upon layer of fine tannins that give depth and beauty to this young red. Blackcurrant, blueberry and floral flavors. Tight at the end. Needs until 2025 to really show what it has.
TASTING NOTES
The 2018 S.L.V. Cabernet Sauvignon has generous aromas of violet, plum dark fruit, cocoa dust and graphite. On the palate the wine has a rich, gravelly structure with pure fruit, dusty tannins and a long, savory finish. The tannin structure, dark fruit, and pleasing minerality point to this wine’s ability to age.
FOOD PAIRINGS
Enjoy with Dirty Rice and Andouille Sausage, Birria Beef Tacos, or Mushroom Ravioli with Arrabiata Sauce.
WINE ANALYSIS
Blend: 100% Cabernet Sauvignon
Aging: 21 months, 100% new French oak
Alcohol: 15%
TA: 0.56g/100ml
F: 100% stainless steel tank
97 Points Robert Parker
The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon S.L.V., a barrel sample, reveals a deep garnet-purple color and expressive notions of blackberry preserves, black cherry coulis and warm cassis with suggestions of eucalyptus, dark chocolate, lavender and tobacco leaf. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is tightly wound with black fruit and savory layers, supported by a rock-solid frame of grainy tannins and just enough freshness, finishing long and lifted.
97 Points James Suckling
This is one of the best SLVs I have tasted with total balance and structure that highlights what was possible in 2018. It’s full-bodied, yet tight and poised, with layer upon layer of fine tannins that give depth and beauty to this young red. Blackcurrant, blueberry and floral flavors. Tight at the end. Needs until 2025 to really show what it has.
TASTING NOTES
The 2018 S.L.V. Cabernet Sauvignon has generous aromas of violet, plum dark fruit, cocoa dust and graphite. On the palate the wine has a rich, gravelly structure with pure fruit, dusty tannins and a long, savory finish. The tannin structure, dark fruit, and pleasing minerality point to this wine’s ability to age.
FOOD PAIRINGS
Enjoy with Dirty Rice and Andouille Sausage, Birria Beef Tacos, or Mushroom Ravioli with Arrabiata Sauce.
WINE ANALYSIS
Blend: 100% Cabernet Sauvignon
Aging: 21 months, 100% new French oak
Alcohol: 15%
TA: 0.56g/100ml
F: 100% stainless steel tank
