Vineyard Supplied Fruit to 2 Winners of Judgment of Paris Competition: 2016 Nicholson Jones Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley Stag's Leap Steltzner Vineyard
Prepare for something extraordinary—the 2016 Nicholson Jones Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley Stag's Leap Steltzner Vineyard is nothing short of remarkable. This is a true masterpiece crafted by the highly acclaimed winemaker Julien Fayard. With experience honed at prestigious estates like Château Lafite Rothschild and Quintessa, Fayard’s expertise is evident in every bottle, and this wine is a testament to his brilliance.
The 2016 vintage is already considered one of Napa Valley’s finest, especially for Cabernet Sauvignon. With 98-point scores from critics like Wine Advocate, Wine Spectator, and Vinous Media, this vintage has received overwhelming praise. Vinous described it as “aromatically expressive” and “super-finessed,” which means it captures the elegance and complexity that make Napa Valley’s Cabernet Sauvignon so highly sought after.
What makes this wine even more special is its origin. The grapes come from the legendary Steltzner Vineyard in Stag’s Leap. Back in 1964, Dick Steltzner took a bold risk by planting Cabernet Sauvignon in a region many believed was too cool for the varietal. He proved them all wrong, and the vineyard went on to play a key role in the famous 1976 Judgment of Paris, where Napa Valley wines triumphed over France’s best. Today, the Steltzner family, along with vineyard expert Jim Barbour, continues to produce exceptional fruit for this outstanding wine.
Upon tasting, this Cabernet Sauvignon delivers a rich, bold profile of dark berries, complemented by hints of vanilla and spicy oak. The balance between vibrant freshness and structured tannins creates a wine that is both lively and sophisticated. Allowing the wine to breathe reveals even more complexity, making each sip better than the last. After eight years, it is ready to be enjoyed now, but it also has the potential to age gracefully for years to come.
Stag's Leap is renowned for producing wines that balance power with elegance, and the 2016 Nicholson Jones Cabernet Sauvignon exemplifies that tradition. This wine is luxurious, complex, and offers a true taste of Napa Valley at its finest. For enthusiasts of Cabernet Sauvignon, it is a wine that promises an unforgettable experience.
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