CASK 23 is a story of two legendary vineyards — S.L.V. and FAY — that come together to create a complex yet harmonious blend. S.L.V., the winery’s first vineyard, made waves in the wine world when it won the Judgment of Paris in 1976, while FAY is notable for being the site where Cabernet Sauvignon was first planted in the Stags Leap District in 1961. Vines planted in volcanic soils on the eastern hillsides of both S.L.V. and FAY give CASK 23 its structure, concentration, spicy intensity, and elegant tannins, while those grown in the alluvial soils in the middle and lower sections of the two vineyards add vibrant fruit flavors, a supple mid-palate, and perfumed aromatics.

The 2023 vintage could be the vintage of the decade — among the coolest growing seasons in Napa Valley in the past ten-plus years, resulting in wines that are exceptionally flavorful, expressive, and have strong potential to age for decades to come. Winter brought ample rainfall that filled reservoirs and enriched soils, with the two-year average of 17.5 inches in 2021 and 2022 more than doubling to 39.6 inches at the estate in 2023. Cool conditions led to a later-than-average bud break in mid-April, and summer brought warm, sunny days combined with cool sea breezes in the late afternoon and evening throughout the season, resulting in a slow and even ripening period.

A blend of 70% Fay and 30% S.L.V., the 2023 CASK 23 exceeds both of the individual bottlings — the elegance and finesse of Fay complementing the power and tannin of S.L.V. Christmas spice-like nuances add to the complexity of violets, sage and thyme, plus black cherries and earth. Most of all, what stands out in this medium- to full-bodied wine is the way it manages to be rich and expansive without being heavy, its seductive texture of fine suede, and its long, refreshing finish. Rated 98 points by Wine Advocate and 97 points by Wine Spectator