Each year, our winemakers find a new muse to inspire them – often varieties or vineyards that exceed expectation. This year, a remarkable 2023 growing season resulted in tremendous character from two varietals not often seen in Napa Valley, Malbec and Petit Verdot. Both native to France, the two varietals marry well together in a beautiful blend, with the structure and freshness of Petit Verdot complementing the round juiciness and velvety rich tannins of Malbec, plus our winemakers added a little Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon to complement the blend.
The deep hue of this Stags’ Leap Winemaker’s Muse reflects its spectrum of classic cassis, pomegranate, blueberry, and red d’Anjou pear aromas, which eddy within a waft of wheaty, pain levain toastiness. Fruit-forward and intense, its palate entry is drenched with bright raspberry, red apple, and blood orange flavors, then spiced upon the mid-palate by warm cinnamon, licorice root, and saffron, the influence of oak. Polished tannins and glistening acidity give this wine a vaulted structure that resonates with fruit and spice through its lip-smacking finish. This is a collector’s wine, with a recommended hold of 5 - 20 years. Decant first if enjoying this inspired blend within the next few years. It will pair well with earthy, savory dishes such as wild mushroom pizza, Peking duck, and paella.
