# Chimney Rock Cabernet Sauvignon Stags Leap District (2021)

- **Producer:** Chimney Rock Winery
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Malbec
- **Region:** California, United States
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.5%
- **Vegan:** Yes
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** blackcurrant, cedar, black cherry, blackberry, vanilla, red cherry, cloves, cedar, vanilla, cloves, tobacco, earth, leather

## About this wine

The Chimney Rock Cabernet Sauvignon 2021 is a red wine from the Stags Leap District of Napa Valley, California, produced by Chimney Rock Winery. The 2021 vintage is a blend primarily composed of 91% Cabernet Sauvignon, with smaller percentages of Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Petit Verdot, and Malbec. The estate, established in 1980, is situated on the Silverado Trail and is recognized for its Cape Dutch-style architecture. The Terlato family acquired the winery in 2004, and winemaker Elizabeth Vianna leads the production, emphasizing holistic farming and the expression of the Stags Leap District terroir.

## Interesting facts

- The estate spans 134 acres in the heart of Stags Leap District.
- The 2021 vintage was recognized as #5 Wine of the Year by Wine Spectator.
- The winery features distinctive Cape Dutch-style architecture.
- Winemaker Elizabeth Vianna focuses on holistic farming practices.

## Food pairing

The wine's full body and polished tannins are well-suited to complement the richness of red meats like steak and lamb, where the tannins bind with protein to soften both. The wine's inherent complexity and potential for savory notes also pair harmoniously with earthy ingredients like mushrooms and herbs.

## Wine making process

The Chimney Rock Cabernet Sauvignon 2021 undergoes fermentation in stainless steel tanks with extended skin contact for 25-30 days. Following fermentation, the wine is aged for 18 months in a combination of 50% new and 50% used French Oak barrels. The vineyard is managed with intelligent and sustainable farming practices. The 2021 vintage was influenced by a cooler growing season, contributing to the wine's freshness and energy.