In 1970 a vineyard was planted in southeastern Napa Valley to Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Once the grapes matured, wine was produced, reflecting a balance of regional and varietal characteristics.

This Stag’s Leap vintage of 1973 achieved international prominence at the now famous 1976 “Paris Tasting,” emerging as one the best wines in a blind tasting conducted by French wine critics and restaurateurs. This event put California, and Stags’ Leap, on the wine map.

The Winery operation sits up on the side of a wooded hill looking west over hillsides and rows of vineyards. The property is landscaped in a lush garden setting with sage, rosemary and lavender plantings under mature oaks and cork trees. Up the stairs to the tasting patio and through the heavy, arched, wooden doors, the tasting room is part of one of the fermentation areas of the winery. The tasting area has two small counters. Visitors can wander further into the building and enjoy their fine art gallery while sampling their wines.

The winery produces Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, Merlot and three or four vineyard designated Cabernet Sauvignon bottlings. The region is known for its elegantly flavored wines with soft tannins, and rich satisfying flavors. Splurge a little and try their reserve wines and taste the subtle and sublime nuances of an aged, well made Napa Valley Cabernet.