Usually Stags' Leap makes amazing wines, but their 2007 Petite Syrah [sic] from Napa Valley is far less than amazing. It started off well with a dark inky purple color. The nose exhibited dark chocolate, licorice, and slightly vegetative flavors most notably asparagus. On the palate the first thing I noticed was the alcohol which isn't very high at 14.3%, but it shows far too much. The wine is also slightly astringent with green flavors as well as bitter-sweet chocolate. The high acidity and alcohol bite the tongue. I was very disappointed by this overpriced wine ($35).If you don't know Stags' Leap, don't take this as indicative of their winemaking skills. They usually make outstanding Cabs and Merlots. Liza at Brix Chicks had the 2008 Petite Sirah and loved it. So hopefully the 2007 was just an off year.
HI, Brian! I am adding you to our blogroll at www.brixchicks.com. Also, I wonder if you got a bad bottle? Stags Leap Petite Sirah is one of my favorites. I have not noticed highly vegetal aromas or flavors and I always get a lot of mocha/espresso? I love a good discussion so I look forward to reading more of your adventures! Liza
ReplyDeleteIts quite possible that I got a bad bottle. Sometimes I wonder about Safeway's wine storage practices. I was hesitant to post this because Stag's Leap is usually killer, but I figured its better to warn people than just hope it is a fluke. I'm certainly not going to spend another $35 to find out.
DeleteThanks for the add.
Brian
There is a Single Vineyard PS from Stag's Leap is that what you were thinking about?
DeleteNope. I got mine at BevMo. They were also pouring at Dark and Delicious and I tried more there. Your palate may be more sensitive to vegetal than mine. I know I am very forgiving to that quality. PS: your apostrophe kind of floats; there is no apostrophe for this producer
ReplyDeleteThanks Liza. Stags' Leap has an apostrophe after the "s" according to their website. Unfortunately I couldn't make it out to Dark and Delicious as I work at 6am on Saturdays.
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