2024 Stag's Leap Wine Cellars Chardonnay Karia

the history of SLV and Stag's Leap Wine Cellars

Founded in 1970, Stag's Leap Wine Cellars made history when its 1973 SLV Cabernet Sauvignon stunned the world by beating top Bordeaux wines during the famous "Judgment of Paris" in 1976. This moment definitively established Napa Valley as a serious wine region. The SLV vineyard, officially known as Stag's Leap Vineyard, was the estate's first vineyard and has been the backbone of its style ever since. Today, SLV symbolizes wines with layering, intensity, and longevity, where the combination of history and terroir results in a unique wine.

terroir and location of the SLV vineyard

The SLV vineyard is located in the heart of the Stags Leap District AVA in Napa Valley, known for its volcanic soils and perfect microclimate. The area enjoys warm sunshine during the day and cool nights thanks to its proximity to San Pablo Bay. This gives the grapes strength and ripeness, as well as freshness and elegance. The volcanic soils in blocks such as 2A, 3A, 1A, 1B, and especially Block 4—the "grande dame" from 1972—give the wines their characteristic mineral structure, dark fruit intensity, and ripe tannins.

the climate and the harvest of 2022

2022 was the third consecutive year of drought in Napa Valley. Record rainfall in October 2021 was followed by an exceptionally dry winter. Spring was uneven, with a hail and rainstorm during flowering and a late frost in April, although no significant damage occurred. Summer began with a brief rainy spell in late June that increased powdery mildew, but from mid-July onward, more stable conditions with average temperatures followed. Just before harvest, a nine-day heat wave struck, bringing record temperatures. Thanks to careful planning and attention in the vineyards, the fruit was harvested in perfect condition between September 15th and 29th. This year's wines are known for riper flavors and softer acidity.

vinification and maturation

The grapes were harvested entirely by hand and rigorously selected. Fermentation took place in stainless steel, followed by complete malolactic fermentation. The wine then aged for 20 months in 100% new French oak barrels. The 2022 blend consists of 98% Cabernet Sauvignon and 2% Cabernet Franc, resulting in structure, power, and a subtle spiciness. With an alcohol content of 14.8% and a pH of 3.89, the wine displays richness, balance, and aging potential.

Tasting notes of the 2022 SLV Cabernet Sauvignon

The wine opens with deep aromas of black currant, ripe plum, and violet, combined with graphite, dark chocolate, and a hint of black tea. On the palate, the wine is rich and structured, with mineral tannins that lend depth and complexity. Further development reveals layers of espresso, mocha, and dark fruit, with a long and refined finish. The balance between intensity and elegance makes this wine appealing now, but with clear potential for decades of aging.

International critics praised the 2022 vintage. Decanter awarded it 95 points, praising the combination of ripe dark fruit and vibrant freshness. Wine Advocate praised the length and velvety texture. This recognition reaffirms SLV's status as a benchmark for Napa Cabernet Sauvignon.

Would you like to order Stag's Leap wines online?

If available, you'll find the official fact sheet and additional information about this fine wine in the "Attachments" tab. We'll automatically send you these when you order this wine. The wine is stored in our climate-controlled Wine Warehouse, and if you pick it up, you'll often receive a nice discount. You'll see your discount immediately when you select "Pick up" at the checkout page. We're located in Dordrecht, just off the A16 motorway with ample parking. Click here for our address. You can read full wine reviews from publications like Parker, Suckling, Vinous, and Wine Spectator.

Need advice on finding the perfect wine to pair with your dish? Click here for our exclusive Sommelier. Free for Grand Cru customers.

Wine and food pairings with the 2022 SLV Cabernet Sauvignon

• Grilled ribeye with rosemary butter – the powerful tannins and dark fruit aromas enhance the full, marbled meat.
• Rack of lamb with thyme and garlic – the dish's spicy notes complement the mineral structure and herbal accents perfectly.
• Wild boar stew with mushrooms – the earthy flavors are balanced by the layers of espresso and dark chocolate in the wine.
• Truffle and Parmesan Risotto – the creamy texture and umami enhance the depth and elegance of the Cabernet Sauvignon.
• Gegri

  OVER STAG'S LEAP

  Stag's Leap Wine Cellars is deeply rooted in the wine legends of Napa Valley, which inspired founder Warren Winiarski to establish Stag's Leap Wine Cellars. The winery that would contribute to the Napa Valley legends with its 1973 SLV Cabernet Sauvignon.
  In 1976, French wine experts ranked this wine higher than the best wines of France during a blind tasting in Paris. At this historic event—now called the "Judgment of Paris"—the SLV took top honors among Cabernet Sauvignons, triumphing over two First-Growth and other renowned Bordeaux wines. The event brought international recognition to Stag's Leap Wine Cellars and Napa Valley. Today, Stag's Leap Wine Cellars is recognized for its portfolio of estate-grown Cabernet Sauvignons—SLV, FAY, and CASK 23—which are among the most highly regarded and sought-after wines in the world. Since 2023, the winery has been owned by the Antinori family, one of the most historic and renowned wine families in the world.