Special Reserve Selection Cabernet Sauvignon (1980)

About this wine

The 1980 Stonegate Special Reserve Selection Cabernet Sauvignon from Napa Valley offers a rich tapestry of flavors that have evolved beautifully over time. On the nose, it presents aromas of dried blackcurrant, tobacco, and a hint of cedar, reflecting its extended aging. The palate reveals layers of dark cherry, leather, and earthy undertones, complemented by well-integrated tannins that provide a smooth, velvety mouthfeel. This wine showcases the classic characteristics of Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, known for its robust structure and aging potential. As it has matured, it has developed a harmonious balance between fruit and secondary flavors, making it a delightful experience for those who appreciate aged wines.

About the grape

Cabernet Sauvignon, a grape that emerged in 17th-century France from a natural cross between Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc, is renowned for its thick skins and resilience, making it a favorite among vintners. In Napa Valley, this varietal found an ideal environment, with its warm days and cool nights fostering rich fruit flavors and balanced acidity. By the 1980s, Napa's Cabernet Sauvignons had gained international acclaim, with events like the 1976 Judgment of Paris showcasing their quality. The 1980 Stonegate Special Reserve Selection Cabernet Sauvignon is a testament to this era, reflecting the dedication and expertise of Napa's winemakers in cultivating and crafting exceptional wines from this esteemed grape.

Quick facts

• 🍇 The 1980 Stonegate Special Reserve Selection Cabernet Sauvignon hails from Napa Valley, a region renowned for producing some of the world's finest Cabernet Sauvignons.
• 🏞️ Stonegate Winery, established in the 1970s, was known for crafting high-quality wines that showcased the unique terroir of Napa Valley.
• 🇫🇷 Cabernet Sauvignon, the grape variety used in this wine, is a cross between Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc, originating in France in the 17th century.
• 🕰️ Wines from the 1980 vintage are now over four decades old, making them rare finds for collectors and enthusiasts.
• 🍷 A well-aged Cabernet Sauvignon like this one can develop complex flavors such as dried fruits, tobacco, and leather over time.

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.