Shafer Merlot 2012

“From one of the most difficult vintages in our history comes a wine that richly rewards all our efforts – from fragrant aroma through the round, full mouth to its long, polished finish this wine offers both layered complexity and easy-to-love juiciness. In the nose and mouth I get so many scents and flavors – red and black cherry, red and black plum, smoke, white pepper, sage, oregano and wet earth. This lush package is kept together in a structure of fine, ripe tannins (winery note)."

Expert Review

90 Points - Connoisseurs' Guide to California Wine, April 2014 Issue
"Shafer’s Merlots are always among the richer and riper versions to be had, and, even though coming from a challenging year, this one has the fruity volume to go with its chocolaty ripeness and abundant sweet oak. It is fleshy and full, and it ends with a bit of hard-to-ignore heat, and, if arguably open to criticism as being a little too much of a good thing, it is very deep and has richness to spare. It will hold up with age yet is tasty right now, and, whether enjoyed now or later, it is one to match up with heartier, full-flavored fare."

89 Points - Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar, May/Jun 14,(15.1% alcohol):
"Good dark red. Musky currant and milk chocolate aromas are complemented by smoky oak. Rich and truffley on the palate, with inviting sweetness to the flavors of cherry, licorice, coffee bean and fresh herbs. Doesn't have the depth of the best vintages here but this broad, chewy wine finishes with sweet tannins and very good persistence."

Food Pairings

Flatter Merlot’s fruit by adding a similar element of fruit to poultry, pork and meat dishes (duck breast with dried cherry-Merlot sauce, roast chicken with cranberry-wild rice stuffing). Carmelized onions, roasted garlic and mushrooms are pleasant c