2021 Hillside Select Cabernet Sauvignon

You can safely put the 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Hillside Select up with the top vintages of this cuvée, yet it's much more in the style of say, the 2010 or 2018, than a more opulent year, and is going to demand bottle age. Sensational amounts of cassis, graphite, darker chocolate, graphite, tobacco, and a Pauillac-like lead pencil character all define this ultra-classic, focused, structured 2021 that has a slightly more focused, seamless style than normal. The purity is world class, and it hits the palate with full-bodied richness, a deep, layered mouthfeel, sweet yet building tannins, and a blockbuster of a finish. Hide bottles for 5-7 years minimum, and it will evolve for 40+ years.

The 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Hillside Select is insanely beautiful. It's also one of the very finest wines I have ever tasted here. Bright, pliant and resonant, the 2021 offers a beguiling mix of Cabernet Sauvignon aromatics, generous fruit and gentle structure. The stylistic shift at Shafer has been remarkable-the 2021 is a great example. Red-toned fruit, blood orange, menthal, pine and sweet spice build into the eternal finish.

Profound and full-bodied with an intensity of aromas and flavors, this sophisticated and ample Cabernet Sauvignon has become one of the region's icons. Made from the Shafer's hillside vineyards, this red carries a core of dark fruits, crushed rocks, and savory elements of mushroom followed aromas of aromatic forest. Abundant, fine tannins and a lengthy finish mean the wine will continue to develop with age, but will also benefit from another several years in bottle. Enjoy with prime rib or another cut of succulent meat. Enjoy. — Elaine Chukan Brown