Shafer 2009 Napa Merlot
Shafer Vineyards traces its beginnings to 1972 when John Shafer left a 23-year career in the publishing industry and, with his family, moved to the Napa Valley to pursue a second career in wine. After purchasing a 210-acre estate in Napa Valley’s Stags Leap District, the Shafer family faced the arduous task of replanting the existing vineyards, which dated to the 1920s, and terracing the steep and rocky hillsides, eventually expanding vineyard acreage to its current 50 acres. From a modest beginning of 1,000 cases in 1978, the winery has grown steadily until reaching its present size of 32,000 cases of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Chardonnay, and Syrah.
Pouring a glass I noticed a dense dark purple color, and outstanding aromas of red and black fruits, cherries and blackberries, with hints of chocolate 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 medium length finish. This was truly an outstanding Merlot. If you can find yourself a bottle, do not hesitate. The wine should be good for at least another 5+ years. Please check out the Shafer Website and look at some of the fine recipes that Annette Shafer offers.
Cheers!