The Stag's Leap district of Napa produces some fine Cabs, especially the small boutique wineries. The cult wineries in my opinion produces some very fuit foward Cabernets. I wouldn't exactly call Stelzner a cult wine but it is far from a large winery and has a great following.

The 2005 Stelzner Cabernet had a great deep garnet color in the glass with well defined legs. Inside my glass there was aromas of black currant, vanilla and smoke. On the palate the fruit was ripe with smooth tannins and nice oak,yet nothing like an "oak monster". The wine was aged in French Oak barrels and was drinking well yet I would only assume 3-5 years of bottle time would only do this wine wonders.

With food the Stelzner was even better. My taste buds were salivating all evening. I loved this wine, like I do most Napa Cabs especially from smaller vineyards. I expect it will only get better in complexity during the next couple of years.  With this said, I must say this is a Napa Cab style I really enjoy. Fruit  with a hint of oak.

Would I get some more?. I'm running to the store to try to find some more!

Country: California, Napa Valley

Grape Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon

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