Black Stallion Cabernet Sauvignon
NanoLumens’ Wine of the Month

By Chris Wagele

 

AV Professionals know there is nothing better than a great glass a wine. Whether its savory, bold, fruity, acidic, or oaky, seeing those crystal glasses filled with a vibrant liquid is an adventure. Arguably Napa wines are amongst the most world-renowned and hail from one of the best wine producing areas in the world. Napa has grown to over several hundred wineries throughout the region. Some that are in magnificent caves, and some in towering castles, while others are quite simple and elegant. Regardless, some of the best wines originate from this charming area.

I will not pretend I’m a wine aficionado, but I do get a chance to chat and learn a bit from a few experts from time to time. For me, I am always on a quest to find a new restaurant and try some amazing cocktails. So naturally, finding a great bottle of wine (or two, or three…) is thrilling. Like many, it’s the adventure of trying something new, or learning about the process I find most fascinating. So why not create a monthly blog dedicated to wine and geared towards my fellow #AVFoodies? Cheers and enjoy my friends!

Several years ago, I had the chance to visit the Black Stallion Winery in Napa with friends that were members and do a tasting in the Garden Terrace. It’s a beautiful vineyard situated at the south end of the Silverado Trail in the Napa Valley. At nearly a century old, Black Stallion Winery produces many varietals, but is well-known for their Cabernets. This former equestrian center produces both white and red wines categorized into three tiers; Prestige (extremely limited, hand crafted wines – the best of the best), Limited Release (estate and other single vineyard bottlings) and Heritage wines (must larger productions, generally available in select states through distribution).

One of my favorites from Black Stallion is the 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon. Per Wine.com it , “This rich, fruit-forward wine calls for succulent, flavorful dishes such as grilled tenderloin with roasted shallots, creamy blue cheeses, pepper-rubbed pork chops or duck breast with grilled plums.” I personally see this paired with Beef, lamb, or an aged hard cheese, like a good Parmesan, or Gouda perhaps.

In terms of the taste, I’d say this is a nice, full bodied red, with fruit forward (but not too sweet).  It’s smooth on the palette with mild tannins. I’d give it a solid 4/5 grapes review and add that this Cab is offered at an affordable price point. Black Stallion also offers other Cabs (limited releases, etc.) at higher price points as well. Cheers and stay tuned for my next Wagele’s Wine Review!

 

OVERVIEW:

  • Name of Wine: Black Stallion Cabernet Sauvignon
  • Vineyard/Vintage: 2018
  • Region: Napa Valley (South end of the Silverado Trail)
  • Pairs well with: Beef, lamb & aged/hard cheese
  • Rating 1-5 grapes – 5 Grapes is the best: solid 4 grapes
  • Price range ($ affordable, $$moderate, $$$ expensive): $