2010 Stags' Leap Winery Ne Cede Malis

Even more remarkable is the 450-case 2010 Petite Sirah Ne Cede Malis Estate (another Latin expression meaning “don’t give in to misfortune’). Probably the most expensive Petite Sirah from California, it is composed of 85% Petite Sirah and 15% of a field blend of grapes believed to include Carignan, Mourvedre, Muscat, Sauvignon Blanc, Grenache, Syrah and Peloursin. The fruit is all co-fermented and the wine is aged in 100% American oak, of which 25% is new. The 5-acre vineyard from which this wine emerges was planted in 1929, so these are some of the oldest vines in Napa Valley that are not Zinfandel. An amazing effort, it boasts an opaque color, incredible levels of extract and richness, abundant notes of pen ink, blackberries, pepper, charcuterie, bouquet garni, licorice, a touch of truffles, thrilling levels of fruit, massive body, and a colossal finish of close to 45 seconds. Amazingly, this 2010 is still an infant in terms of development, but it is so impressive, rich and well-balanced that it is difficult to ignore. It should be drinking beautifully 30 years from now. I have always thought of this winery as a Petite Sirah specialist, but they are now also producing cuvees of Cabernet Sauvignon, a proprietary red and a couple of Merlots. Stags Leap Winery first made its reputation with its Petite Sirahs, and they now offer two cuvees of California’s most underrated varietal. Tel. (800) 395-2441