Product Overview
The 2017 S.L.V. Cabernet Sauvignon, a single vineyard estate wine from the winery's first vineyard, the same vineyard that produced the wine that came out on top in the 1976 Judgment of Paris, offers generous aromas of dark chocolate, graphite, truffle, dried fig, and a lovely touch of violet. Rich and refined on the mid-palate, the wine has a long and well-structured finish with a dusty cocoa powder note. The tannin structure, rich dark fruit, and pleasing minerality point to this wine's ability to age. Enjoy with Moroccan-spiced shrimp over sweet potato mash, grilled buffalo burgers with caramelized onions and Havarti cheese, or baked chicken with hazelnut mole sauce.
Varietal Composition: 100% Cabernet Sauvignon
Appellation: Stags Leap District AVA, Napa Valley
Aging: 21.5 months in French oak, 100% new
Winemaker: Marcus Notaro
97 Points, "Cellar Selection" - Wine Enthusiast
"From the producer's first site that was planted in 1970, this wine is sumptuous in blackberry, fig and dark chocolate. A bright wisp of cassis shines on the midpalate, enlivening the bold, supple texture. Underlying layers of crushed rock and iron provide a welcome and intriguing minerality that highlights the finish. Best from 2027–2037." -VB, 12/31/20
(93-95) Points - Wine Advocate
"A barrel sample, the very deep purple-black colored 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon S.L.V. leaps from glass with baked black plums, blackberry pie and black currant cordial notes plus hints of wild sage, charcuterie, tapenade and tree bark. Full-bodied, firm and grainy, the rock solid foundation well frames the broody black fruit and it finishes earthy." -LPB, 10/31/19
92 Points - Wine Spectator
"Compact, with a juicy core of blackberry and black currant fruit waiting to unwind. When it does, this will have lively licorice snap and singed apple wood notes. There's a subtle violet hint in the background to add some grace, but this has a nice sense of power overall. Best from 2021 through 2032. 2,096 cases made." -JM, 11/15/20
