Stags Leap Terrain (Back to overview)
The terrain of Stags Leap can be broken into two major sections: the hills and the lowlands near the Napa River. In the hills, soils are volcanic and suited to Cabernet Sauvignon.
The Two Major Sections of Stags Leap Terrain
Hillside vineyards are dominated by the red Bordeaux varietals including Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, and Petit Verdot. Petite Sirah and Zinfandel are also at home in these volcanic soils.
These soils drain very well, causing vines to put all of their energy into a low, but intense fruit yield. The combination of these soils with the AVA’s breezy, moderate climate causes Stags Leap Cabernet Sauvignon to have a certain restrained strength.
The geology near the Napa River is also well drained, but is comprised mainly of silt and clay. Vineyard sites are peppered with alluvial volcanic sediment that has been leeched down from the hills over the ages.
Soils in this part of Stags Leap are more fertile, and canopy management is often practiced. White varietals thrive here, including Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Semillon.
Stags Leap Wineries
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