Stag's Leap Wine Cellars - gray metal rack
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Stag's Leap Wine Cellars

4.5
·455 reviews·Napa, United States

Legendary Napa Valley winery, famed for its 1976 Judgment of Paris win, offering exquisite wines and stunning vineyard views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, late morning

Fewer crowds, more relaxed

CrowdLow
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Stag's Leap Wine Cellars - gray metal rack

Stag's Leap Wine Cellars

Best Time

Weekdays, late morning

Fewer crowds, more relaxed

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Legendary Napa Valley winery, famed for its 1976 Judgment of Paris win, offering exquisite wines and stunning vineyard views.

4.5
(455 reviews)

"One of the best wine tasting experiences in Napa, blending history, exceptional wine, and warm hospitality."

Vertical photo
TIP

Bookings are Essential

Always book your tasting and tours in advance online. Spots fill up quickly! :ticket:

Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing some walking, especially on tours. :athletic_shoe:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Judgment of Paris Legacy

Judgment of Paris Legacy

Visitor Center

Discover the historic 1976 win that put Napa on the global wine map. A must-see for wine history buffs!

Wine Cave Tours

Wine Cave Tours

Underground Cellars

Explore the impressive wine caves and learn about the winemaking process from grape to bottle.

TikTok
Scenic Outlook Point

Scenic Outlook Point

Hillside

Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Napa Valley from this stunning vantage point.

Instagram
Artisanal Wine Pairings

Artisanal Wine Pairings

Tasting Room

Experience expertly curated food pairings that elevate the tasting of their acclaimed wines.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Book Your Tasting in Advance

Popular Napa Valley wineries like Stag's Leap Wine Cellars require reservations for tastings and tours. Booking ahead ensures your spot, especially for sought-after experiences like cave tours or special pairings. Check their website for availability and pricing.

Understand the Name Game

Napa Valley has two famous wineries with similar names: Stag's Leap Wine Cellars (with an apostrophe) and Stags' Leap Winery (plural apostrophe). Stag's Leap Wine Cellars is renowned for its 1973 Cabernet Sauvignon victory at the Judgment of Paris. Instagram

Best Times

When
Weekdays, late morning
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon
Why
Golden hour views
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Save this for your next trip to Napa! 🍇🎀 I #napavalley #napa #wine #winetasting #winery #winecountry #napaguide #napaitinerary #stagsleap #vintagewine #OOTD #comewithme #modelbakery #luxury #savette #shopping #winetour #walkingshoes #historic #topofthelist #top10
@talia.dianee
1.6K likes • 44.4K views

Bookings are Essential

Always book your tasting and tours in advance online. Spots fill up quickly! :ticket:

Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing some walking, especially on tours. :athletic_shoe:

What a year. One of the last tasting experiences of 2024. The Stag's Leap Wine Cellars team wishes you a very happy holiday season, and we look forward to continuing to share our legacy with you in the new year. #StagsLeapWineCellars
stagsleapwinecellars
438 likes • 7K views
Thank you to everyone who joined us last night for the Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars dinner. We enjoyed a four-course meal paired with their iconic Stags Leap District and Napa Valley wines. Interested in joining us for our next wine dinner? Stay tuned to our page for more information!
steelbach_tampa
71 likes • 4.2K views

Ask About History

The winery has a rich history; hosts love sharing stories. :scroll:

Consider a Private Tour

For a more intimate experience, inquire about private tours and tastings. :gem:

www.cbthewinehunter.com.br Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars S.L.V. Cabernet Sauvignon 40th Anniversary Vintage 2013 (Napa Valley, Stags Leap District AVA): Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars é uma das vinícolas pioneiras de Napa Valley localizada na AVA Stags Leap District no coração do vale. O seu vinho Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars 1973 foi o vencedor dos vinhos tintos no célebre Julgamento de Paris em 1976, evento q...
carlosreis74
0 likes • 310 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Bookings are Essential

Always book your tasting and tours in advance online. Spots fill up quickly! :ticket:

Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing some walking, especially on tours. :athletic_shoe:

Ask About History

The winery has a rich history; hosts love sharing stories. :scroll:

Consider a Private Tour

For a more intimate experience, inquire about private tours and tastings. :gem:

Don't Mix Up Names!

Remember: Stag's Leap Wine Cellars (apostrophe) is the Judgment of Paris winner. :wine_glass:

What Travellers Say

4.5
(455 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Stag's Leap Wine Cellars for its exceptional wine quality, rich history, and stunning vineyard views. The knowledgeable and friendly staff contribute significantly to a memorable and welcoming tasting experience, making it a top recommendation for wine enthusiasts and history buffs alike. While it's a premium experience, many feel it's well worth the cost.

"One of the best experiences in Napa. We came to Stag's Leap off a suggestion from a friend who visited during his honeymoon. Is words didn't do this place enough justice. We did the tour and seeing how selective they are with their grapes has to be the reason this wine hits home so well. The first one we tasted, the Arcadia had these wonderful notes of white peach that popped through. The SLV and Cask 23 were great on their own, but when paired with what the chef had selected for the day, the new hints of flavor that popped out were indescribable. And, to top it off, when you have a fantastic host like Miguel (I hope i got his name right, he was our host on 8/9), it makes it all the more memorable. He had great advice to share on how to sniff wines to pick up all the smells, shared some fun stories, and being thanked with a warm hug at the end.. it made us feel more like family than customers. I would go here a million times and never get sick of it. Job well done to all of you."

Kevin K

"Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars is a must-visit for wine lovers and history buffs. Known for its legendary win at the 1976 Judgment of Paris, the winery offers a chance to see and learn about this remarkable moment in wine history. The views from the property are stunning, and the setting is both elegant and inviting. Our host was excellent, making the tasting informative (I like when I can actually learn a little about the AVA and history of the winery) and enjoyable. If you appreciate Cabernet Sauvignon, this is an essential stop in Napa."

Andi Myers

"This may have been, to date, the best wine tasting experience I've had in Napa. For a winery with an immense amount of history and prestige ("1976 Judgment of Paris"), everyone we met was very kind and down to earth. I liken my time visiting to tastings I've had in laid back regions such as Anderson Valley and Santa Ynez. As for the wine itself, 10/10. Everyone's palette is different so speaking as someone who enjoys a Bordeaux as well as cabs from Howell Mountain, Stag's leap is fanstastic."

James Pillot IV

What People Like

Exceptional wine quality
Historic Judgment of Paris legacy
Beautiful vineyard views

What People Dislike

Higher tasting fees

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

From San Francisco, take I-80 East across the Bay Bridge towards Sacramento. Continue on I-80 E and then take exit 44 for CA-37 E towards Napa. Merge onto CA-37 E and then take the exit for CA-29 S towards Napa. Follow CA-29 S into Napa Valley and then take the exit for Silverado Trail. Turn right onto Silverado Trail and follow signs for Stag's Leap Wine Cellars. The drive is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours depending on traffic. TikTok

Yes, there is ample parking available for visitors at Stag's Leap Wine Cellars. It's generally well-organized, especially for those with pre-booked appointments. TikTok

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Napa Valley, but availability can be spotty, especially for pick-ups. It's advisable to book your return trip in advance or arrange for a designated driver. Reddit

Many visitors opt for a designated driver, hire a private driver or limo service, or use ride-sharing apps. Some also book organized wine tours that handle transportation between multiple wineries. TikTok

Public transportation options directly to wineries are limited in Napa Valley. It's best to plan for private transportation or a tour. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Tasting fees vary depending on the experience, typically ranging from $50 to $100+ per person. Some tastings include food pairings. It's best to check their official website for the most current pricing and package details. Reddit

Yes, reservations are highly recommended and often required for all tastings and tours at Stag's Leap Wine Cellars. Bookings can be made through their website. TikTok

Stag's Leap Wine Cellars is typically open daily, with tasting hours usually from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. It's always best to confirm current hours on their official website before your visit. Instagram

While walk-in availability might occasionally exist, it's strongly advised to make a reservation in advance to guarantee your tasting experience. TikTok

A standard tasting usually includes a selection of their current release wines, often focusing on Cabernet Sauvignon. Some packages may include a brief overview of the winery's history. Reddit

🎫 🍷 Wine & Tastings

Stag's Leap Wine Cellars is most famous for its Cabernet Sauvignon, particularly the wines from the Stags Leap District AVA. Iconic bottlings include the SLV, Fay, and the highly-regarded Cask 23. Instagram+1

Yes, you can purchase wines directly from the winery during your visit or through their wine club. Many of their wines are also available through select retailers. Instagram

In the 1976 Judgment of Paris tasting, Stag's Leap Wine Cellars' 1973 Cabernet Sauvignon famously beat top French Bordeaux wines, catapulting Napa Valley onto the world stage of fine wine. Instagram+1

Yes, Stag's Leap Wine Cellars often offers curated food pairings designed to complement their wines. These can elevate the tasting experience significantly. InstagramReddit

Stag's Leap Wine Cellars (with an apostrophe) is the historic winery famous for the 1976 Judgment of Paris. Stags' Leap Winery is a separate entity with a different history and wines. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography & Views

Absolutely! The winery grounds offer beautiful vineyard vistas, the historic buildings, and the scenic outlook point provide stunning backdrops for photos. TikTokInstagram

The outlook point on the hillside offers panoramic views of the valley, making it a prime spot for memorable photographs. The vineyards themselves are also very picturesque. Instagram

Photography policies can vary. While some areas might allow photos, it's best to check with your tour guide. Flash photography is often discouraged in the caves to protect the wine. TikTok

Expect rolling vineyards, classic winery architecture, and expansive views of the Napa Valley landscape, especially from the higher vantage points. TikTok

Late afternoon, during the 'golden hour,' offers beautiful soft light for photography, enhancing the colors of the vineyards and landscape. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While Stag's Leap Wine Cellars is primarily an adult-focused wine destination, families can still enjoy a visit if planned thoughtfully. The scenic grounds and the outlook point offer beautiful views that can captivate children for a short while. Consider booking an earlier tasting slot when the atmosphere is generally more relaxed. TikTok Ensure children are supervised at all times and understand that they cannot consume any wine products. Some visitors have noted that the focus is heavily on the wine and history, so keeping younger children engaged might require bringing along quiet activities. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

Stag's Leap Wine Cellars is considered a premium winery, and tastings can be a splurge. To manage costs, consider sharing a tasting with a travel companion if the winery allows, or opt for a tasting that includes fewer wines. Reddit Look for any special offers or packages that might provide better value. Alternatively, you could visit the grounds to enjoy the views without a formal tasting, though this is not the primary experience offered. Instagram

🥂 Couples & Romantic Getaways

Stag's Leap Wine Cellars offers a wonderfully romantic setting for couples. The stunning vineyard views, especially during golden hour, provide a picturesque backdrop for a special outing. Instagram Booking a private tasting or a tour that includes food pairings can elevate the experience into a truly memorable date. The winery's historic significance and the quality of its wines add a touch of sophistication to any romantic escape. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Legacy of the Judgment of Paris

Stag's Leap Wine Cellars holds a pivotal place in wine history thanks to its victory at the 1976 Judgment of Paris. In this blind tasting, their 1973 Cabernet Sauvignon was judged superior to several esteemed French Bordeaux wines. This unexpected win shocked the wine world and fundamentally shifted perceptions of American wines, particularly those from Napa Valley. It proved that California could produce world-class wines, opening doors for countless other wineries and establishing Napa as a premier wine region. Instagram+1

Visitors can learn more about this historic event at the winery, often through displays and discussions during tours. Understanding this legacy adds a profound layer to the tasting experience, connecting you to a moment that redefined the global wine landscape. It's a testament to the quality and dedication that has defined Stag's Leap Wine Cellars since its inception. Reddit

Exploring the Wines of Stag's Leap Wine Cellars

The heart of Stag's Leap Wine Cellars' offerings lies in its exceptional Cabernet Sauvignons, deeply rooted in the Stags Leap District's unique terroir. The SLV and Fay bottlings are flagship wines, each showcasing distinct characteristics derived from their specific vineyard blocks. SLV is often described as powerful and structured, while Fay tends to be more elegant and perfumed. Instagram+1

Beyond these celebrated Cabs, the winery also produces other notable wines. The Artemis Cabernet Sauvignon offers a more accessible entry point to their style, known for its bright fruit and approachable tannins. Instagram For those seeking something truly special, the Cask 23 is a limited production wine made from the finest lots, representing the pinnacle of their winemaking artistry. InstagramReddit Exploring these different expressions provides a comprehensive understanding of the winery's commitment to quality and its mastery of Cabernet Sauvignon. Instagram

The Stag's Leap Wine Cellars Experience

A visit to Stag's Leap Wine Cellars is more than just a tasting; it's an immersive journey into wine, history, and stunning scenery. Many visitors highlight the exceptional hospitality, with hosts often described as knowledgeable, friendly, and passionate. This personal touch makes the experience feel less like a transaction and more like being welcomed into a family. Reddit The winery offers various tasting experiences, from standard pours to more in-depth tours that include exploring their impressive wine caves. TikTok

The setting itself is a major draw. The winery boasts beautiful grounds with vineyards stretching across the landscape, and a notable outlook point offering panoramic views of the Napa Valley. Instagram This combination of world-class wine, rich history, and breathtaking scenery creates a truly memorable visit. Whether you're a seasoned wine connoisseur or a curious newcomer, Stag's Leap Wine Cellars provides an experience that resonates long after you leave. Reddit

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