Special Reserve Selection (1980)

About this wine

The 1980 Stonegate Special Reserve Selection Cabernet Sauvignon from Napa Valley offers a deep garnet hue, indicative of its age. On the nose, it presents aromas of dried blackcurrant, cedar, and a hint of tobacco. The palate reveals a harmonious blend of mature dark fruit flavors, subtle earthiness, and well-integrated tannins, leading to a smooth, lingering finish. This wine reflects the classic characteristics of Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon from that era, showcasing the region's ability to produce age-worthy wines. As with any wine of this age, individual bottles may vary, and proper storage conditions are essential to maintain its quality.

About the grape

Cabernet Sauvignon, a cross between Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc, is renowned for its full-bodied wines with high tannins and great aging potential. In the 1980 vintage, Napa Valley experienced a challenging growing season marked by a wet winter, a cool early season, and a long, foggy summer. A much-needed heat spell in September allowed the fruit to develop high sugar content while maintaining good acidity. However, the harvest faced hot and erratic weather, resulting in Cabernet clusters with a mix of ripe, green, and over-ripe berries. Despite these challenges, some winemakers overcame fermentation issues to produce ripe and balanced wines. Stonegate Winery, established in 1973, was among the producers crafting Cabernet Sauvignon during this period. Their 1980 Special Reserve Selection reflects the resilience and adaptability of Napa Valley vintners in navigating the complexities of that vintage.

Quick facts

• 🏞️ Stonegate Winery, established in 1973, was among Napa Valley's pioneering wineries, contributing to the region's rise as a premier wine-producing area.
• 🌡️ The 1980 vintage in Napa Valley was marked by a cool early season followed by a hot harvest period, resulting in Cabernet Sauvignons with a mix of ripe, green, and over-ripe berries.
• 🍷 Stonegate's 1980 Special Reserve Selection Cabernet Sauvignon is a testament to the winery's commitment to producing age-worthy wines, reflecting the unique terroir of Napa Valley.
• 🍇 Cabernet Sauvignon, the grape varietal used in this wine, is known for its thick skins and hardy vines, contributing to the wine's deep color and high tannin content, which aid in aging potential.
• 🌍 Napa Valley's diverse microclimates and soils allow for the production of Cabernet Sauvignons with a wide range of flavor profiles, from fruity to earthy, showcasing the region's versatility.

Palate profile

Producer

Stonegate Winery, established in 1973 by Jim Spaulding in Calistoga, California, was among the pioneering wineries that contributed to Napa Valley's rise as a premier wine region. Initially sourcing grapes from various North Coast vineyards, the winery later focused on its own Spaulding Vineyard on Diamond Mountain, known for its volcanic soils and unique microclimates. In 2003, the Duncan family, owners of Silver Oak Cellars, acquired Stonegate's facilities to house their Twomey Cellars brand, integrating the historic site into their operations. The original Stonegate Winery building, designed to resemble a turn-of-the-century wine barn, featured a barrel cellar, tasting room, and production facility with a capacity of up to 80,000 gallons per year.