2021 Realm Cellars, Moonracer, Napa Valley

A strong effort, Realm's 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Moonracer is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, coming from a mix of older vines and newer plantings. Mixed red and black cherries appear on the nose, accented by hints of cedar and spice, while the medium- to full-bodied palate brings a suave, suede-like feel—that famous Stags Leap District texture. Ending long and harmonious, this is just a wonderful effort.

All Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate Moonracer is one of the more structured, firmer wines in the lineup, but I suspect it's going to gain plenty of elegance with 4-6 years of bottle age. Blueberries, black cherries, leather, dried herbs, and lead pencil notes all emerge from this full-bodied, rich, concentrated 2021, which has building tannins and a great finish.