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Tasting notes
The 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon Td-9 is based on 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Merlot, 7% Malbec, and 7% Petit Verdot and aged 18 months in 100% new French oak. Cassis, redcurrants, leafy tobacco, and spicy wood define the aromatics, and it's medium to full-bodied, with a pure, layered mouthfeel and beautiful tannins. It shines for its purity and balance and shows outstanding length on the finish. This will keep for 20 years with ease. Drink 2025-2045.
Critic scores
Average Score
Jeb Dunnuck
Jeb Dunnuck
More reviews and scores
The 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon TD-9 is just as expressive as it was last year. Floral and savory notes open first in a mid-weight, delicate Cabernet Sauvignon that impresses with its approachability. TD-9 represents the more lifted, delicate side of Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon.
Shafer's 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon TD-9 was presented prior to bottling. It's a full-bodied, ripe, opulent style, supple and not overly tannic but still has enough backbone to partner a steak. Fruit-forward and dominated by black cherries and cassis, it finishes long and mouthwatering. For the price, it's a solid value and—with 10,000 cases expected to be bottled—probably the most likely to wind up on your local steakhouse's wine list.
Not yet bottled, the 2023 TD-9 is the same blend as the 2022 and is still resting in 100% new barrels. Red and black fruits, new leather, graphite, and some floral notes all define the aromatics, and it's medium to full-bodied, beautifully balanced, layered, and has a great finish.
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.