2005 Napa Valley Merlot
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Tasting notes
The 2005 Merlot (14.9% alcohol) is a blend of 86% Merlot, 8% Cabernet Sauvignon and 6% Cabernet Franc aged 20 months in French oak. By Napa pricing standards, it’s an absolute bargain at $52.00. Succulent and sexy blue, red and black fruits, a touch of spice from oak, and flowers jump from the glass of this medium to full-bodied, opulent, juicy, round wine. It is drinking beautifully at age ten, but there’s certainly no rush to consume it, as it’s clearly capable of lasting another decade as well.
Critic scores
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
(includes 8% cabernet sauvignon and 6% cabernet franc) Good ruby-red. Spicy red fruits and cocoa powder on the nose. Supple and silky on the palate, with fresh, nicely delineated flavors of redcurrant, flowers, spices and tobacco. Very nicely balanced wine, finishing with rather suave tannins and some lingering oakiness.
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.