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Tasting notes
The 1996 Firebreak (80% Sangiovese and 20% Cabernet Sauvignon) exhibits a dark ruby color, as well as a textbook Sangiovese nose of strawberries, leather, cherries, and damp forest scents. The wine possesses excellent richness, medium body, and an elegant, more restrained and subdued style than the richer, more fragrant 1997. It should drink well for 5-7 years. Many a California Sangiovese is unimpressive, so the noteworthy efforts stand out. Shafer's is one of the handful of exceptions. Admittedly, they blend 15%-20% Cabernet Sauvignon with their Sangiovese. Tel. (707) 944-2877; fax (707) 944-9454.
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
Full red-ruby. More subdued but perfumed aromas of red berries, cherry, licorice and baking spices. Sweet and smooth in the middle, with red fruit and tobacco flavors and a satisfyingly layered texture. Finishes with suave, lush tannins and a flavor of cherry cola. This is clearly more successful than the '95. The sangiovese grapes liked the heat of '96, points out Doug Shafer.
About the producer
The site of Shafer has been around since 1880, and grapes continued to be grown here, even during prohibition. It is said that some wine was made here during that time. In 1972, John Shafer bought the property in the Stag’s Leap district, he immediately began planting the Cabernet on the hillside.