Winemaker Comments:
“2018 Hillside Select is an enticing balance of opulence and energy. This classic Cabernet Sauvignon fills the glass with vivid aromas of blackberry, black cherry, warm earth, and baking spice. The flavors richly echo the wine’s aromas, adding juicy layers of summer briar fruit, berry compote, cinnamon, lively red and black plums, and mocha with a long, radiant finish. Structured tannins offer the promise of a lengthy, sumptuous tenure in your cellar.” - Shafer Winemaker Elias Fernandez
Vineyard Location: 100% hillside vineyards in Stags Leap District including Shafer’s estate vineyard blocks Sunspot John’s Upper 7, Venado Ilegal, and Firebreak 2018 Growing Season: A lengthy, cool, steady growing season created ideal conditions for the fruit to hang on the vine a long time in the summer sun developing rich color, alluring aromas, and luxuriant flavors.
- Cooperage: 32 months in 100% new 60-gallon French oak barrels (Allier and Tronçais)
- Varietal Composition: 100% Cabernet Sauvignon
- Brix at Harvest: 24.0° - 26.0°
- Alcohol: 15.5%
- ** Only 6 in Stock **
Frankly ripe but well-focused, with blackberry and creamed boysenberry notes flowing through atop a polished structure, while cocoa and black licorice frame the finish. A subtle hint of sassafras lingers on the finish, adding textural nuance. This has the stuffing to age well, too. Drink now through 2038. From California. — J.M. - Wine Spectator Magazine 95 points
