This sub-AVA of the Napa Valley is located just northeast of the town of Napa. Along with the Rutherford AVA, Stags Leap District is considered to produce the best Cabernet Sauvignon in the Napa Valley. This district also produces America’s most best Petite Sirah, as well as outstanding Merlot and Bordeaux blends.

Stags Leap wineries are known for producing more restrained Cabernet Sauvignon than their warmer neighbors to the north. In 1976, Warren Winiarski’s Stags Leap Cellars won the Paris Blind Tasting with new California Cabernets pitted against historic Bordeaux. Probably no other event catapulted California Cabernet to international fame as much as this remarkable tasting.

Stags Leap Wine is produced in a moderate climate. A row of hills along the western border acts as a funnel that draws wind up from the San Pablo Bay. This cools the region and increases acidity in the grapes. At the same time, most Stags Leap vineyards are on western facing slopes and exposed to late afternoon sunshine. This ensures ripe fruit and developed tannins. Stags Leap's volcanic terrain is a major reason why Stags Leap Cabernet Sauvignon is known as, “an iron fist in a velvet glove.” (Wine/Appellations)