Wines Napa Valley Sterling Vineyards - 2016

Sterling Vineyards’ 2016 red wine from Napa Valley captures the richness and elegance that this renowned Californian wine region is celebrated for. Although the specific blend of grape varieties is not detailed, it is common for Napa Valley reds to be based on Bordeaux grapes, particularly Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, sometimes supported by varietals such as Malbec, Cabernet Franc or Petit Verdot. The 2016 vintage generally benefited from ideal weather conditions, resulting in wines with expressive fruit, balanced acidity and approachable tannins. Sterling Vineyards is known for crafting polished, layered wines that reflect both vibrant fruit character and subtle oak influence, often resulting in complex and age-worthy bottles.

Napa Valley, situated north of San Francisco, enjoys a climate that’s distinctly Mediterranean, marked by warm days and cool nights, thanks to fog from the nearby Pacific Ocean. The region’s diverse soils range from volcanic to alluvial, contributing depth and complexity to the wines. The story of Napa’s viticulture dates back to the mid-19th century, but it surged to international prestige in the 1970s. Today, the valley boasts world-class estates and remains synonymous with some of America’s finest wines.

Given the likely style—structured, robust, and with ripe, dark fruit flavours—this wine is an ideal partner for a well-marbled grilled steak, roast lamb with rosemary, or hearty dishes such as beef short ribs or mushroom risotto. For a regional Californian pairing, consider American barbecue or a classic burger with aged cheddar. The wine’s body and tannic structure also stand up beautifully to rich cheeses like aged Gouda or blue cheese.

To enjoy this wine at its best, decant for at least an hour to reveal its aromatic complexity and serve at around 16-18°C. This will allow the wine’s full breadth of fruit, spice and earthy notes to shine, promising an elegant and memorable tasting experience.