2019 Addendum Stagecoach Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon
Nestled atop the Vaca Mountains in Pritchard Hill within the Atlas Peak AVA, Stagecoach Vineyard is the largest contiguous vineyard in the Napa Valley. Addendum officially sources from two Atlas Peak blocks that were planted in 1998 and span about 1.5 acres. Characterized by bright red, volcanic Hambright soils made up of a boulder-strewn clay loam, Stagecoach has been called “the last frontier of the Napa Valley” due to its wilder, more rugged terrain, fragrant with wild herbs and dotted with rare native plants.
Stagecoach Vineyard boasts altitudes ranging from 1,200-1800 feet above sea level, ensuring the entire vineyard is usually above the fog level. During the growing season, this site is characterized by long, warm, dry days and cool nights, with a steady breeze coming up from the valley, which provides a marine influence. The flavor profile resulting from Addendum’s Stagecoach blocks exudes classic mountain Cabernet Sauvignon (clone 15) influence, with smaller berries that provide more concentration, firmer tannins and good acidity retention.
The 2019 growing season was considered to be yet another outstanding vintage by growers, winemakers and critics alike. On the heels of the highly acclaimed 2018 vintage, it was very exciting for us to experience a second fabulous year in a row. Below is Wine Spectator’s commentary:
“A wet spring resulted in less overt tannic structure, with small, concentrated berries delivering dense yet pure fruit flavors. Harvest stretched into October thanks to very moderate temperatures in August and September. Wines are ripe and lush yet well-defined; a worthy follow-up to the benchmark 2018 vintage.”
When you arrive at Stagecoach Vineyard after a very lengthy, uphill drive that begins on Silverado Trail and follows the curves of Soda Canyon Road – and beware of large trucks coming down the other way; there is not much room for two cars!! – you feel like you are on top of the world! This is truly an incredible, unique place to grow grapes. The ground is bright red volcanic soil, huge rocky outcroppings pop up from the earth, and at the edge, is a stunning vista of beautiful Napa Valley below. We have been fortunate to secure grapes from this vineyard for over ten years now, and the wine – like the place – never fails to impress.
