The Stags Leap District AVA is located on the eastern side of Napa Valley, California, along the Silverado Trail. Though it measures only about one mile wide and three miles long, it has played a major role in shaping the reputation of California wine. The area became world-famous after the 1976 Judgment of Paris, when a 1973 Cabernet Sauvignon from Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars surprised the wine world by winning a blind tasting against prestigious French wines. This region is shaped by rocky cliffs known as the Stags Leap Palisades, which reflect sunlight into the vineyards during the day, helping grapes ripen fully. At night, cool air flows down from the hills, lowering temperatures and keeping the wines balanced and fresh. The district gets its name from a local legend of a stag that escaped hunters by leaping across these rocky cliffs. Today, Stags Leap District is best known for Cabernet Sauvignon wines that are rich, smooth, and luxurious, with a velvety texture. Merlot and small amounts of Sauvignon Blanc are also produced, adding to the region’s elegant wine style.
See our Stags Leap District AVA wines from Quixote Winery and Bemberg Estate Winery here.
Author: Maytte Rivera
