Established in 1893, Stags’ Leap Winery is one of the first wine estates within the acclaimed Stags Leap district, continually producing wines expressive of its unique terroir. With an enduring wine making philosophy of minimal intervention, and by using the harvested grapes from their own 85 acre vineyard and select growers, the Stags’ Leap wines embody a natural balance—exhibiting intensity and finesse.

Vintage and Vineyards
The 2008 growing season produced modest yields and incredible wines for Stags’ Leap. This year marked the second season of drought in the Napa Valley. There was virtually no rainfall in the spring, and precipitation was down 60% for the year. Summer produced cool, consistent temperatures and the dry conditions forced the vines to focus on fruit development rather than leaf production producing a wonderfully concentrated crop. A brief warm spell around Labor Day added the boost of sugar development that we were looking for to balance the acid structure.

Winemaking
All of the grapes were hand picked and kept separate throughout harvest and fermentation. Small percentages of other varieties were incorporated into the blend before aging in French oak barrels (50% new) for 18 months.

Tasting Notes
The Stags’ Leap Napa Valley Merlot 2008 has significant structure that is complemented by soft, supple tannins. The 2008 blend highlights how complex Merlot can be, starting with aromas of clove and cocoa followed by intense flavor notes of black cherry, plum and coffee.