Wines Napa Valley Black Stallion - Cabernet Sauvignon - 2020

Viniou Reviews

Black Stallion’s 2020 Cabernet Sauvignon from the historic Napa Valley AVA is a compelling expression of Californian winemaking. Crafted predominantly from Cabernet Sauvignon grapes, this wine is deeply coloured and offers a rich aromatic bouquet. On the nose, expect intense notes of blackcurrant, ripe blackberry, and black plum, layered with subtle scents of cedar, tobacco leaf, vanilla and a touch of baking spices, owed to careful maturation in oak barrels. The palate is full-bodied with structured tannins and a vibrant, persistent finish, reflecting both the power and finesse typical of top Napa Cabernets from an excellent vintage like 2020.

Napa Valley is internationally renowned for its Cabernet Sauvignon, thanks to its unique terroir. The region enjoys a Mediterranean climate, marked by warm, sunny days and cool nights. This diurnal temperature variation allows grapes to achieve full ripeness while retaining balancing acidity. The valley’s diverse soils, ranging from gravelly loams to volcanic ash, lend further complexity and depth to the wines. Since the mid-19th century, Napa Valley has built a reputation for excellence, with a focus on quality and innovation making it a benchmark region for premium New World Cabernet.

Given the wine’s robust structure and rich flavour profile, it pairs beautifully with hearty dishes. A classic match would be a perfectly grilled ribeye steak or roast lamb with rosemary and garlic, where the tannins harmonise with the protein and the rich fruit complements savoury notes. Mushroom Wellington or aubergine parmigiana are ideal vegetarian options. For a more regional touch, consider pairing with American barbecue beef brisket or a blue cheese burger, which will echo both the depth and the subtle smokiness of the wine.

For optimal enjoyment, serve this Napa Cabernet at 16-18°C. Decanting for around an hour will help reveal its underlying complexity and soften the tannins, ensuring a well-rounded experience in the glass.