I was blown away by the brilliance of the 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon. Loaded with fruit, this blend of 97% Cabernet Sauvignon and tiny dollops of Cabernet Franc and Merlot tips the scales at 14.8% natural alcohol, all of which is hidden beneath a cascade of gorgeous black currant fruit intermixed with toasty oak and hints of charcoal and pen ink. Exhibiting a full-bodied, opulent, voluptuously textured mouthfeel, it is a pure, dense, classic Napa Cabernet that should drink well for another 10-15 years. I wish I had realized what a great wine this was early on, as it was never that expensive.
I am hardly alone in having enormous respect for the Shafer family, whose father, John, started this venerable Stags Leap winery in 1978. John still has an amazingly vigorous constitution as he moves into his eighth decade of life, although his son, Doug, is now carrying the Shafer banner. Since the beginning, they have enjoyed the services of one of the world’s great winemakers, Elias Fernandez. These are the highest scores I have ever given their regular cuvees of Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, which again demonstrates what extraordinary winemaking and attention to detail takes place at Shafer. Everything can be recommended, from their Red Shoulder Chardonnay to their bevy of wine made from Bordeaux varietals as well as their famed Relentless, a blend of Syrah and Petite Sirah. This winery has clearly been on the top of its game for two decades and only continues to improve. How admirable is that?
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