The Ultimate Expression of Napa Valley
Cabernet Sauvignon is the grape that defines Napa Valley. The region’s diverse soils, microclimates, and elevations create ideal conditions for producing structured, age-worthy wines.
Sterling Vineyards Platinum Cabernet Sauvignon is crafted to capture this diversity, blending fruit from select Napa Valley vineyards to create a balanced and powerful expression of the region.
Napa Valley and Cabernet Sauvignon
Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is known for:
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Concentrated dark fruit flavors
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Structured tannins
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Balanced acidity
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Ageability
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Layered complexity from oak aging
Sub-appellations across Napa Valley contribute distinctive characteristics.
Valley Floor Vineyards
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Consistent sunshine and cooling fog
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Fertile soils
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Ripe fruit expression
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Smooth tannins and long finishes
Mountain and Hillside Vineyards (Including Howell Mountain)
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Higher elevation
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More extreme weather conditions
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Lower yields
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Greater intensity and firmer tannins
Blending fruit from multiple sites allows the winemaking team to create structure, balance, and depth.
The Winegrowing and Winemaking Partnership
The Platinum collection places special emphasis on collaboration between vineyard and winery.
Winemaker Lauren Kopit works closely with vineyard teams to identify fruit that expresses the best qualities of each sub-appellation. As she notes, exceptional wine begins in exceptional vineyards.
For every vintage:
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Vineyard blocks are evaluated for ripeness and structure
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Harvest decisions are made with precision timing
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Fruit is selected for balance and aging potential
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Blending is used to harmonize intensity and elegance
This partnership ensures that vineyard character is preserved and elevated in the finished wine.
Winemaking Approach
Once harvested, the fruit undergoes meticulous handling:
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Hand sorting to select only the highest-quality clusters
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Fermentation in small stainless steel lots
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Careful temperature control to preserve fruit purity
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Approximately 20 months of aging for complexity and integration
Stainless steel fermentation preserves fresh fruit expression, while extended aging enhances depth and structure.
Tasting Profile
Platinum Cabernet Sauvignon delivers:
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Big, juicy dark fruit flavors
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Blackberry and black cherry
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Subtle layers of baking spice
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Polished, smooth tannins
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Structured yet approachable finish
Each vintage is crafted to be enjoyable upon release while also offering exceptional aging potential.
Aging Potential
Platinum Cabernet Sauvignon is designed for both immediate enjoyment and cellar development.
With proper storage, expect:
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Increased complexity over time
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Integration of oak and fruit
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Softening tannins
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Emerging tertiary notes
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Platinum Cabernet Sauvignon different from other Napa Cabernets?
Platinum focuses on vineyard selection and blending across sub-appellations to achieve both power and balance, emphasizing partnership between winegrowing and winemaking.
Is Platinum Cabernet Sauvignon age-worthy?
Yes. While approachable in its youth, it is structured for long-term aging under proper cellar conditions.
How long is Platinum Cabernet aged?
Each vintage is aged for approximately 20 months to develop complexity and integration.
What foods pair best with Platinum Cabernet Sauvignon?
Ideal pairings include:
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Grilled ribeye
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Beef tenderloin
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Braised short ribs
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Aged cheddar or blue cheese
