Lion Tamer 2021 Cabernet

The Lion Tamer 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon from Napa Valley stands as a testament to the region’s rich terroir and refined winemaking techniques. Crafted meticulously by winemaker Stephanie Pope, this vintage captures a harmony of hedonistic boldness and smooth sophistication, delivering an exceptional experience for the palate. The Cabernet Sauvignon, which dominates the blend, is masterfully softened by Malbec—a grape Pope refers to as the "lion tamer"—which tempers the natural intensity of Napa’s robust mountain fruit. Petite Sirah lends additional depth, resulting in a layered and dynamic wine that truly embodies Napa’s potential.

On the nose, this wine presents a vivid bouquet of ripe black currants, juicy dark plums, and a hint of mocha, interwoven with subtle aromas of baking spices, imparted by 18 months in 33% new French and American oak. The palate reveals a seamless integration of flavors—dark fruit anchored by soft, approachable tannins. As these tannins envelope the mouth, they accentuate the wine’s core, framing the plush notes of espresso and spice, and leading into a finish that lingers with both power and finesse. The touch of Malbec adds a plush texture, allowing each sip to be both bold and effortlessly drinkable.

The 2021 growing season saw ideal conditions for producing fruit of extraordinary quality, with mild spring rains, a temperate summer, and warm, sunny days followed by cool Napa nights throughout fall. These conditions permitted longer hang times, allowing the grapes to achieve optimal phenolic ripeness while retaining balanced acidity. This careful cultivation resulted in fruit with remarkable concentration and structure, all showcased in the Lion Tamer's intricate profile.

At Lions Head Cellar, advanced winemaking technologies, including optical sorters and precision-controlled fermentation tanks, further refined this wine's purity and depth. These innovations allowed Pope and her team to capture the essence of each varietal in the blend, ensuring that only the highest quality grapes contributed to the final expression.

For those seeking a Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon that offers both depth and drinkability, the Lion Tamer 2021 is a triumph. Its expressive fruit, velvety tannins, and long, balanced finish make it a compelling choice for both immediate enjoyment and aging potential. With every glass, it unveils layers of craftsmanship and character, promising an experience that is as bold as it is refined.

Blend: 86% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Malbec, & 6% Petite Sirah

Alcohol: 14.5%

95 POINTS - "Polished and perfumed, this elegant wine drinks easily now but has the balance and quiet concentration to help it improve for several years. Lush black cherries, black currants and blueberries fill the palate, buoyed on moderate tannins and spiced with toast, cinnamon and cedar notes from oak barrels. Blended with 8% Malbec." - Wine Enthusiast

92 POINTS - "Small amounts of malbec and petite sirah add some spices and raspberries to this 86% cabernet sauvignon. It shows the handsome black cherry intensity of cabernet and firm tannins while nicely layered. Drinkable young. Drink or hold." - James Suckling

92 POINTS - "Shows generous, succulent notes of acai, blackberry and black currant preserves. This offers ample toast, too, which stays along the edges. Nice licorice root and singed alder accents weave through the finish. Best from 2025 through 2035." - Wine Spectator

In crafting this wine, our goal is to achieve perfect balance between hedonism and elegance. We add a touch of Malbec to the blend to develop a softness in the tannins, making this a smooth and seamless wine. These supple tannins surround the palate, framing layers of juicy black currant, dark plum and hints of espresso, with well-integrated notes of baking spice from oak aging presenting on the lengthy, elegant finish.