The Iconic Acquisition: Stag's Leap Wine Cellars and Arcadia Vineyard
Stag's Leap Wine Cellars, a revered name in the wine industry, has recently acquired the iconic Arcadia Vineyard located in the Coombsville AVA of Napa Valley. This acquisition marks a significant milestone for the winery, which is renowned for its exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon. The vineyard was established by legendary winemaker Warren Winiarski, who recently passed away at the age of 95.
A Legacy Reunited
Juan Munoz-Oca, the Chief Operating Officer of Stag's Leap Wine Cellars' parent company Antinori, expressed his excitement over this acquisition, noting that the unique terroir of Coombsville offers the potential for producing high-quality wines that resonate with Winiarski's original vision. This acquisition not only brings the vineyard back to Stag's Leap but also enables the winemaker to aim for 100% estate-grown wines, a hallmark of the Antinori family.
Understanding Arcadia Vineyard
Covering a sprawling 135 acres, Arcadia Vineyard boasts 84 acres planted with premium varietals, including 59 acres of Cabernet Sauvignon, 22 acres of Chardonnay, and 3 acres of Merlot. Nestled at the base of Mount George, this vineyard is situated on the eastern side of Napa Valley and holds a significant historical value. Winiarski had purchased Arcadia Vineyard in 1996, with a vision that aligned with the ideals of natural harmony.
A Vision for Preservation
Winiarski had previously donated parts of the vineyard to the Land Trust of Napa County, ensuring that these natural habitats remain protected and untouched by development. This commitment to preserving the land speaks volumes about Stag's Leap Wine Cellars' philosophy, as it aims to honor the ideals of sustainability and quality winemaking that have been part of its heritage since its inception.
Excitement from the Stakeholders
Marchese Piero Antinori, a 25th generation wine producer, reminisced about Winiarski's attachment to Arcadia Vineyard. When Stag's Leap Wine Cellars was sold in 2007, Winiarski's stipulation to retain ownership of the vineyard showcased his deep connection to it. Antinori expressed that the reunion of Arcadia Vineyard with Stag's Leap Wine Cellars allows for a fusion of history and quality that can elevate their wine-making journey.
Commitment to Quality
Through this acquisition, Stag's Leap Wine Cellars moves closer to its goal of producing premier wines reflective of Napa Valley's terroir. The commitment from the Antinori family and the current management under CEO Renzo Cotarella underscores their focus on estate-grown wines—where every aspect of wine production is controlled from the vineyard to the bottle.
A New Era for Stag's Leap Wine Cellars
Founded in 1970, Stag's Leap Wine Cellars rose to prominence when its 1973 Cabernet Sauvignon won the celebrated Judgment of Paris wine tasting in 1976, catapulting it into global recognition. As the winery continues to evolve, nurturing its legacy while embracing new heights, the acquisition of Arcadia Vineyard strengthens its dedication to crafting extraordinary wines for generations to come. The synergistic vision of the vineyard and winery promises not only an enhancement in quality but also an exciting chapter in the story of Stag's Leap Wine Cellars.
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