2020 Stags' Leap Winery Petite Sirah Napa Valley
This 2020 Petite Sirah has lovely floral aromatic intensity showcasing notes of fresh violet, candied floral blossom and black raspberry. On the palate, these notes are echoed, with layers of creamy blueberry, ripe Bing cherry, raspberry gelato, and black cherry liquor. There is a richness and opulence to this wine, with intriguing power and intensity while the tannins come across fresh and chewy adding structure, finesse, and complexity. Secondary notes of roasted coffee bean, dark chocolate, and cocoa-nibs harken to the well-integrated subtle oak character that leads to a lengthy mouthwatering finish. This is a perfect example of classic Petite Sirah from Napa Valley, certain to age and provide enjoyment for many years to come.
"Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars is unquestionably one of Napa Valley’s benchmark producers. At the now legendary “Spurrier Tasting” of ’76, this operation topped the world’s best – most notably the Bordeaux first growths – and sent shock waves through the wine world. It was the first time that an American winery had ever gone toe-to-toe with the Old World and delivered a haymaker, and the fact that the judges were French only made it sweeter. It was a turning point for the entire California wine industry. Now in their fifth decade, Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars has expanded their portfolio to include some fabulous whites to accompany their muscular Cabs. We wouldn’t expect anything less from the winery that changed it all. They’ve made a few changes internally as well... a partnership between Ste. Michelle Wine Estates and Marchesi Antinori proudly accepted the stewardship of Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars and its legacy in 2007, cinching their success for years to come."
Wine Advocate
Aged entirely in American oak (19% new), the 2020 Petite Sirah pairs an interesting mix of garrigue-like notions with mocha and cigar box, plus notes of blueberries, licorice and dark chocolate. It's full-bodied and a bit chewy on the palate but ripe, juicy and long.