2001 Shafer Merlot Napa Valley
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Tasting notes
The 2001 Merlot is the best regular Merlot I have tasted from Shafer, an elegant, medium-bodied, restrained, but attractively styled wine with loads of licorice and berry fruit and a hint of mocha coffee bean. Luscious, sexy and understated, this is a beauty to drink over the next 5-7 years. Tel. (707) 944-2877; Fax (707) 944-9454
Critic scores
Robert Parker
Jancis Robinson MW
More reviews and scores
Deep red-ruby. Red berries, exotic spices, violet, coffee, cola and smoky oak on the nose. Sweet, supple and nicely concentrated, with sappy raspberry flavor enlivened by ripe acids. Delicious, fruit-driven merlot. Finishes bright and persistent, with ripe tannins and a note of chocolate.
Very sweet and opulent and enhanced by its small proportion of Cabernets Sauvignon and Franc. Dangerously easy to swallow and well balanced for its high alcohol level – 14.7 according to the label. This looks very smart but I wouldn't cellar it for too long. Much, much better than most Californian Merlot. (JR)