The Stags Leap district is in the southeastern corner of the Napa Valley. It's also the name of two wineries separated by an apostrophe. Stag's Leap Wine Cellars is one of Napa's most famous wineries, yet surprisingly low key, tucked at the bottom of a hill off the Silverado Trail. A stairway brings you to the tasting/tank room.
Even though it became famous by winning top honors for its Cabernet blend at the 1976 Judgment of Paris tasting, the tasting room seems like an afterthought. There are two small tasting bars, standard to the left, reserve to the right. Unseen by the general public but available on arranged tours are wonderful caves with a banquet table and some unique features.
If you love BIG RED Napa wines then you should come here, but don't expect a spectacular tasting, the staff is as low-keyed as the environment. The original family sold it in 2008 to Antinori and Chateau St Michele. Wines: Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon. AWG Rating 85
Wineries Nearby: Pine Ridge, Steltzner, Regusci, Chimney Rock, Clo du Val and Darioush.
5766 Silverado Trail Napa 94558, Included on Tour #15 www.cask23.com (707) 261-6441
Call 707-235-2648 for Tours, Books & Seminars Copyright Ralph & Lahni de Amicis 2011 All tasting fees, hours, wine lists, etc are subject to change.