2021 Cliff Lede 'Poetry' Cabernet Sauvignon Stags Leap District
The result of meticulous attention to detail throughout the winemaking process, the fresh and lively 2021 Poetry’s effortless character belies the precision and masterly artistry required to assemble our multi-layered grand vin. This captivating elixir greets the taster with a bouquet of fresh cut flowers, crushed red currant, and summer Morello cherry aromas. Nestled amongst these scents are red and black licorice, clove, and bergamot. Next, there is a rush of melted dark chocolate, shortbread, blackberry, and plum flavors along the palate. Sea salt, aged beef, and loamy black truffle elements add layers of savoriness to the long and tantalizing finish
Since founding his namesake winery in 2002, Cliff Lede has put every emphasis on creating a world-class wine estate. With 60 acres under vine throughout the Stags Leap District, a state-of-the-art winemaking facility and a team that includes famed viticulturist David Abreu and winemaker Chris Tynan, every detail has been considered in an attempt to take Bordeaux varietals to a whole new level. A rock and roll attitude that harnesses the energy and spark of the New World while channeling values of the great Old World winemaking properties, his wines are intrinsically connected to the land with a fresh view point that is both progressive and timely. The wine world is changing, and Cliff Lede and his team are at the forefront of the movement.
The Wine Independent
The 2021 Poetry Cabernet Sauvignon, made from 85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Merlot, 6% Cabernet Franc, and 3% Petit Verdot, is deep garnet-purple in color. The nose is incredibly shut down at this stage, needing patient swirling to unlock expressive notes of Morello cherries, black raspberries, blackcurrant cordial, and redcurrant jelly giving way.
Vinous
The 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Poetry is one of the very finest wines I have ever tasted from Cliff Lede and longtime winemaker Chris Tynan. A classic Stags Leap Cabernet, the 2021 races across the palate with dense, inky fruit, crème de cassis, lavender, licorice, chocolate, spice and espresso. Even with all of its natural density, the 2021 is plush, silky and exceptionally beautiful. Most importantly, Tynan has done an admirable job in taming the tannins in this steep, rocky site, which is an impressive feat. I loved it.