Alcohol: 15.3 %
Grape(s): 92% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Petit Verdot, 2% Malbec, 1% Merlot
Location: Stags Leap District, Napa Valley, California, USA
Tasting Notes: Layers of blackberry, raspberry and black licorice unfold alongside notes of bay leaf, sage, cinnamon, clove and dark chocolate. Full-bodied and velvety in texture, with ripe, finely polished tannins and a persistent, savory finish. Generous enough for cellaring and approachable enough to open tonight.
Notes: The name marks the one-generation gap between John Shafer, who founded the estate in 1972, and his son Doug. Fruit comes from the family's hillside vineyards in the Stags Leap District, and the wine is aged around 20 months in 100% new French oak.
Food Pairing: Grilled rib-eye, roast lamb, braised short ribs, and aged hard cheeses such as aged cheddar or a Parmigiano.
Winery Story: Shafer Vineyards is one of the founding estates of the Stags Leap District, started by John Shafer in 1972 and carried on by Doug Shafer with winemaker Elias Fernandez. The house helped establish the district's reputation for supple, aromatic Cabernet.
