SideTrip: Stagecoach Vineyard

~ The Stagecoach Vineyard ~

A vineyard so great, it has it's own website.  That speaks volumes and as one of Napa Valley's greatest vineyards,  it seemed a natural desination for our latest #SideTrip.

 

Early American history and tales of the wild west have bestowed this vineyard with it's name.   In the early 1800's, the gentlemen bandit, Charles Earl Bowles, known to lore as "Black Bart" often robbed the daily stagecoach that traveled over these very hills from St. Helena.   Not long after, early settlers quickly realized the well drained soil and the exposure were wonderful conduits for growing some amazing grapes;  grapes that would routinely garner some of the highest prices in the Napa Valley. 

 

Since 1995 the 600 acre vineyard has been owned by Dr. Jan Krupp and today, over 90 wineries purchase fruit from the vineyard and many designate the vineyard on their labels.

~ Another view of the vineyard,  the largest contiguous vineyard in all of Napa Valley ~

 

Two of my favorite producers from Napa Valley bottle wines from this vineyard:  Jean Edwards Cellars and Sequoia Grove.   Today's feature is on the latter. 

 

The 2008 Sequoia Grove Stagecoach Vineyard Cabernet is a wonderful representation of this iconic vineyard.  We decanted the wine for a full hour before dinner and you can see from the photo, the wine is a deep, blackish purple color with nary a trace of lightening toward the rim.  Aromas are rich and focused, with cassis, cedar, spice and fresh herbs.  On the palate, the wine is seductive;  with layers of ripe Cabernet fruit tinged with spice, cocoa and new leather.  The tactile sensation is velvety and dusty.  Sexy.  The perfect pairing for Nonna's braised short ribs over mushroom risotto and showing very well now.  I'm thrilled to have more, and a few different vintages in the cellar.  94 points.  About $60 and available directly from the winery. 

~ Sequoia Grove Stagecoach Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon ~

Cheers!