Shafer 2000 Cabernet Sauvignon Hillside Select
Shafer’s signature wine, Hillside Select, is sourced from the slopes of an amphitheater-like structure of thin soil and rock, where a series of knolls and outcroppings some vineyard blocks receive southeastern sunlight, while others receive southern or western exposures. Each afternoon cool breezes from San Francisco Bay (located about 18 miles to the south) channel into the box canyon. The consistent see-saw of daytime heat and evening chill retains acidity within deeply ripened fruit, resulting in a wine of exquisite balance. On this remote site, Cabernet Sauvignon vines prod their roots through thin volcanic soil before meeting weathered bedrock below. With the hillside’s quick runoff and the lack of plant nutrients, the struggling vines produce less than half the fruit tonnage per acre as a typical Napa Valley vineyard. The clusters are small, made up of blueberry-sized grapes that when crushed offer rich flavor, soft texture, and smooth, elegant tannins.
I was saving the 2000 Hillside Select for a celebration and, when I changed my day job, I decided the time was right. I opened the bottle, took a sip, and decided to let it breath for about 45 minutes. Pouring a glass I noticed a dense vivid deep purple color, and outstanding aromas of red and black fruits, cherries and blackberries, with hints of cedar, oak and spice. Tasting this wine was absolutely magnificent, concentrated dark berry fruit flavors, spices, leather and oak, exploding on my palate. Soft velvety subtle tannins provide a nice lingering finish, craving for more. This was truly an outstanding Cabernet, one of the best. If you can find yourself a bottle, do not hesitate. The wine should be good for at least another 5-10 years. Please check out the Shafer Website and look at some of the fine recipes that Annette Shafer offers.
Cheers!