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Vinous
2008 Screaming Eagle Second Flight – Napa's Cult Merlot-Cabernet Blend
The 2008 Screaming Eagle Second Flight is an early glimpse into Screaming Eagle’s visionary expansion beyond its flagship Cabernet. Introduced in 2006, Second Flight offers a more Merlot-forward profile, sourced from the same Oakville vineyard blocks as the estate wine. This 2008 release reflects Screaming Eagle’s rigorous standards while highlighting the softer, more nuanced side of the estate’s terroir. It remains one of the most elusive and collectible second labels in California Cult Wines.
Tasting Notes
The 2008 vintage delivers aromas of dark plum, black cherry, and dried violets, wrapped in subtle notes of mocha and fine cedar. On the palate, it is layered and plush, revealing a supple texture balanced by a lift of acidity and graphite-tinged minerality. The finish is graceful yet persistent, revealing the underlying structure of Oakville’s alluvial soils.
Winemaking & Vineyard Details
Second Flight is typically a blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Cabernet Franc, vinified and aged in small French oak barrels, with a style emphasizing approachability without sacrificing ageability. Grapes are hand-harvested from Screaming Eagle’s meticulously farmed estate vineyard, where extreme precision governs every step, from sorting to élevage.
Investment & Collectibility
Though positioned as the “second” wine, Second Flight enjoys fierce demand among collectors due to its limited production and Screaming Eagle provenance. The 2008 vintage—released at a time when Screaming Eagle was gaining further international acclaim—represents early evolution of the label and holds continued aging potential. Perfect for your collection, especially for those assembling a comprehensive portfolio of cult Napa wines.
Vintage Insights
2008 was a lower-yielding vintage in Napa due to spring frost and a dry growing season. For Screaming Eagle, the concentration of fruit, combined with optimal harvest timing, produced a refined and focused expression. Second Flight 2008 shows the depth and polish that define Screaming Eagle’s hallmark style, in a vintage that rewarded careful vineyard management.



