($48) Moderately saturated red-ruby. Restrained but nuanced nose offers plum, redcurrant, tobacco and nutty oak. A nicely balanced, penetrating midweight with modest flesh but a silky texture and intriguing, understated redcurrant and mocha flavors. This young wine relies as much on its acids as on its suave tannins for structure. Finishes with good persistence and subtle soil tones.

Professional content appears courtesy of Vinfolio

The 2007 Merlot (a 10,000-case cuvee that includes 15% Cabernet Sauvignon) may be the finest Merlot I have ever tasted from Shafer. Reasonably priced for a Napa Valley Merlot, it is characterized by elegance and substance. Its dark ruby/purple hue is followed by notes of wood spice, forest, flowers, berries, mocha, and wood smoke, medium to full body, sweet tannins, and good freshness. Enjoy it over the next 12+ years.

Professional content appears courtesy of Vinfolio

Dark and muscular, with blackberry and graphite aromas and youthful, concentrated black cherry and mocha fruit that show notes of roasted herb, with a hint of game.

Professional content appears courtesy of Vinfolio