The 2004 Merlot (75% Merlot, 15% Cabernet Sauvignon and 10% Cabernet Franc) continues to demonstrate that the movie “Sideways” really had some fatal flaws. I suspect if the director had tasted the Shafer Merlot, or for that matter the Pahlmeyer and a few others, some of the nonsense about Merlot would never have appeared in that funny and enjoyable movie. Shafer’s 2004 Merlot is Napa Merlot at its finest – juicy, succulent, sexy and irresistible. It boasts a deep ruby/purple color along with copious aromas of black cherries, spice, smoke and earth. Beguiling, silky smooth and round, it is a total turn-on. Possibly the hottest winery, qualitatively, in Northern California is Shafer Vineyards. It has been a long time since they have turned out a less than prodigious wine. Moreover, everyone loves this family and staff, so Shafer is the quintessential example of the good guys finishing first. Tel. (707) 944-2877; Fax (707) 944-9454