From Classic Stags Leap District to the Next Generation of Napa: Cliff Lede - Delafield

Few Napa Valley wineries have risen as quickly—or as thoughtfully—as Cliff Lede Vineyards. Founded in 2002 by Canadian entrepreneur and Bordeaux collector Cliff Lede, the estate sits in the heart of the Stags Leap District, one of Napa Valley's most revered Cabernet Sauvignon appellations. Rather than simply purchasing an existing property, Lede undertook an extensive replanting program, matching individual rootstocks and clones to specific soil types across the estate. The result is one of Napa's most meticulously mapped vineyards, with each block farmed for its highest potential.

Music has always been woven into the winery's identity. Vineyard blocks are named after classic rock songs and albums—from Dark Side of the Moon to Moondance—and music plays throughout the cellar during harvest. Today, the second generation has taken the reins, with Jason Lede leading the winery while preserving its commitment to precision farming, sustainability, and age-worthy wines.

Although Cliff Lede built its reputation on world-class Cabernet Sauvignon—including the flagship Poetry bottling—the winery has quietly become one of Napa's most complete portfolios. Estate Sauvignon Blanc blends fruit from multiple Napa sub-appellations with old-vine Sémillon for texture and complexity. Chardonnay comes from the estate High Fidelity Vineyard in Carneros, while the red wines illustrate the evolution from broad Napa Valley blending to single-vineyard precision.

Wines to be tasted:

2024 Cliff Lede Sauvignon Blanc $38

2024 Cliff Lede Chardonnay $55

2022 Cliff Lede Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon $80

2023 Cliff Lede High Fidelity $100

2023 Cliff Lede Rhythm $125

All prices listed shown are regular retail. Significant discounts offered on all wines at the tasting. Due to the their highly allocated nature, some wines may change without notice.