2012 Chardonnay Carneros Red Shoulder Ranch
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Tasting notes
The 2012 Chardonnay Red Shoulder Ranch packs a serious punch. Butter, lemon, tropical fruit, smoke and matchstick form a deep, rich core in the 2012. The flavors are bright, focused and energetic in this impeccably balanced, vibrant Chardonnay. The combination of rich Napa Valley fruit and the brighter style Shafer is now seeking in the Red Shoulder Ranch add up to a highly appealing Chardonnay.
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Average Score
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
The 2012 Chardonnay Red Shoulder Ranch was a smaller crop for Chardonnay than the 2013, and shows the mandarin orange characteristics with tropical fruit such as pineapple and subtle hints of peach and delicate background smoke. It’s medium to full-bodied, lively, and should drink well for another 3-4 years.
(14.9% alcohol): Bright light-medium yellow. Pungent aromas of mirabelle, orange blossom, white currant and subtle oak, lifted by a floral high note. Densely packed and firm, with bright acidity and a hint of minerality intensifying the peach and citrus flavors. Boasts excellent clarity and length: this may be even better in two years. This wine has changed 180 degrees in recent vintages, from opulent and very oaky to still quite dense but with more clarity and energy.
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.