Stags Leap Fay 2012

Stags Leap Cellars is a renowned Napa Valley producer, famous for its role in the, now legendary, 1976 Judgment of Paris tasting which put California wines on the global map. Fay Vinyard is where pioneering grape grower Nathen Fay planted Cabernet in 1961 despite controversial ‘wisdom’ from others, that the area was too cold for the varietal. Tasting Fay’s 1968 homemade Cabernet, in 1969, was a defining moment for Stag Leap Cellars founder Warren Winiarski, this is truly where Stags Leap was born. Purchased by Stags Leap in 1986, Fay vineyard soils are in separate parts rocky, volcanic and alluvial, producing perfumed, voluptuous fruit with elegant tannins. The 2012 vintage is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, fermented in stainless steel, followed by 21 months in French Oak, 85% new. A benchmark example of Napa Cab giving notes of redberry pie with hints of vanilla and cinnamon, followed up by velvety tannins and a bright cherry crunch. The wine has great complexity and length, promising much potential for further ageing.