THE WINE
Clos du Val Winery, established in 1972, is located in the renowned Stags Leap District of Napa Valley, California. The name "Clos du Val" translates from French as "small vineyard estate of a small valley," reflecting its intimate connection to the land. The winery gained international acclaim shortly after its inception when its inaugural 1972 Cabernet Sauvignon participated in the historic 1976 Judgment of Paris, a blind tasting event that pitted California wines against French classics. Remarkably, in a 1986 rematch, the same vintage secured first place, solidifying Clos du Val's reputation for excellence.
VARIETAL COMPOSITION
77% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Merlot, 5% Malbec, 4% Cabernet Franc, 2% Petit Verdot
VINEYARD NOTES
Clos du Val's vineyards are strategically located to harness Napa Valley's diverse terroir. The Stags Leap District vineyard benefits from a unique microclimate characterized by warm days and cool nights, ideal for nurturing Cabernet Sauvignon with structured tannins and rich flavors. The Yountville vineyard, with its alluvial soils and slightly cooler climate, is well-suited for varietals like Sauvignon Blanc and Cabernet Franc, producing wines with bright acidity and aromatic complexity. The winery's commitment to sustainable farming practices ensures the health of the vines and the expression of the region's distinctive terroir.
TASTING NOTES
Clos du Val's wines are celebrated for their balance, complexity, and expression of Napa Valley's terroir. For instance, their Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon offers vibrant aromas of blackberry, mulberry, cassis, and violet. On the palate, it presents bright flavors of cranberry, red plum, cherry, and lavender, intertwined with supple tannins, balanced acidity, and a long, smooth finish.
