1999 Shafer Merlot Napa Valley
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Tasting notes
Performing better out of bottle, the 1999 Merlot offers copious quantities of black currants, ripe cherries, tobacco, nicely-integrated oak, sweet tannin, and admirable flesh. It should drink well for 7-10 years. Tel. (707) 944-2877; Fax (707) 944-9454
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Jancis Robinson MW
More reviews and scores
Liquorice, mint and restraint on the nose of this fine wine which is sleek but no bargain. (JR)
Bright ruby-red. Spicy, dusty aromas of cherry, red licorice, leather, marzipan and mint. Juicy flavors of red- and blackcurrants nicely framed by firm acidity. Relies more on its acids than its tannins for structure and grip. Finishing suggestion of licorice.
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.