Heir Apparent Stags Leap District Cabernet Sauvignon 2022

The 2022 Stags Leap District Cabernet Sauvignon reveals itself in a strikingly deep ruby hue. On the nose, a vivid and expressive bouquet unfolds-interweaving ripe red fruits with bright blue notes in seamless harmony. The palate delivers a supple, medium body, where lively acidity and polished tannins achieve a refined balance. Echoing the finesse of Bordeaux, it offers an impression of freshness and poise, while remaining remarkably approachable and inviting. An intriguing quality of mulled spices emerges alongside suggestions of boysenberry, cigar smoke, cranberry, and compost. The round structure and savory grip integrate seamlessly accompanied by the essence of cured meat. There is an engaging slow build with a final flurry of lingering cooking spices, rosemary, and pine clusters. The 2022 Heir Apparent Cabernet Sauvignon Stags Leap District exhibits a deep ruby hue and captivates with inviting aromas of fresh-cut herbs, crushed sage, and early summer blackberries. On the palate, this wine delivers layered blackberry and dark berry flavors accented by a polished shading of oak, creating a lively and beautifully energetic profile. Showing excellent freshness and poise, the wine glides seamlessly into a persistent, refined finish. A lovely companion to a rustic pâté or a grilled pork bánh mì, where the savory richness, fragrant herbs, and touch of spice beautifully echo the wine's vibrant fruit and elegance. (August 17, 2025, San Francisco, CA) The 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon Heir Apparent Stags Leap District shows a bit more concentration and oak (60% new) than the regular Stags Leap District bottling, but it's otherwise reasonably similar in profile, with cherry fruit accented by hints of leather and dried spices. It's medium- to full-bodied, with a long finish marked by dusty tannins and bright acids, suggesting a bit more cellaring potential.