About this winery

On one of California’s earliest wine estates, a unique terroir and ideal microclimate support a classical standard of viticulture, land use, and winemaking that is as relevant today as it was over a century ago. An intimate valley within the greater Napa Valley, Stags’ Leap is a place of natural beauty, storied buildings and gardens, a lively history, and a reputation for elegant wines showing finesse and intensity. Estate Founder Horace Chase partnered with his uncle, W. W. Thompson, on...

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Product notes

Established in 1893, Stags’ Leap Winery is one of the oldest wine estates within the acclaimed Stags Leap District, producing wines expressive of its unique terroir. With an enduring winemaking philosophy that honors traditional techniques while embracing modern capabilities, and by using the finest grapes from our own 80-acre vineyard and from quality-focused growers, Stags’ Leap wines embody a natural balance, exhibiting both intensity and finesse, while bringing forth the inherent qualities of each variety.

Production notes

Continuing the same time-honored techniques that have made Petite Sirah one of our winery’s staples, our winemakers practiced simple and traditional methods to show the uniqueness of the Petite Sirah fruit.Avoiding over extraction, the wine went through a relatively short maceration period (9-12 days on average) that included fermentation. The wine aged for 15 months in American oak barrels (19% new), allowing the spiciness of the oak to complement the natural spice character of the varietal. The final blend included small amounts of Grenache, Syrah, and other mixed Rhone varietals to bring further complexity to the finished wine.

Tasting notes

Our 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.