Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars 2010 Artemis Cabernet Sauvignon
Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars is considered by many one of the “first growths” of Napa and produces celebrated collectible wines from the historic Stags Leap District. The winery was founded in 1970 at the time Napa Valley was undergoing a rebirth after the lingering effects of prohibition. During the mid-60’s there were less than 20 wineries at the time this new enthusiasm was entering Napa Valley. The distinguishing event that put Napa on the map was the famous 1976 Paris Tasting “Judgment of Paris” (click on for Wikipedia link) when their 1973 Cabernet S.L.V won the event. At this point I would like to point out and clarify any confusion regarding the name of the winery. Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars is the winery who produces the Artemis Cabernet Sauvignon I am discussing in this Post. Stags’ Leap Winery is another nearby winery that also produces fine wines and I will also review some in a future post. I would like to point out the spelling differences between the two “Stags” by the placement of the apostrophe. Then there is the Stags Leap District, which is the name of the appellation where the two aforementioned wineries are located. The Stags Leap District (no apostrophe) is renowned for producing outstanding Cabernet Sauvignon and is located between the Napa River and the Stags Leap Palisades.
Now getting back to the Artemis Cabernet Sauvignon, named for the Greek goddess of the hunt to honor the winery’s quest for the best grapes from the Napa Valley. I noticed a very deep ruby red color, with aromas of dark fruit, sweet spice and herbs. The palate develops the fruit nicely for this blend of 88% Cabernet Sauvignon and 12 % Merlot, as rich and juicy cherries, blackberries, raspberries and plums come forth mingling with herbal notes, well developed tannins, a gentle touch of oak that gives this medium length wine a satisfying finish. The wine was aged for 18 months on French Oak, (21.5% new). Artemis should keep well for at least another 5 years.
Cheers!