2019 Shafer Vineyards Hillside Select

This broad, rich and mouthfilling wine is Shafer's most elite and collectible. Aged for 32 months in all-new French oak barrels, it boasts extra-ripe blackberries and blueberries, accents of mint, cedar and graphite, and a big structure of polished tannins. Tempting to drink soon for its indulgent flavors, the wine should be best from 2027–2037. — Jim Gordon

The single-varietal 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Hillside Select is deep garnet-purple in color. It erupts from the glass with powerful scents of creme de cassis, blackberry pie, and fruitcake, leading to suggestions of wild blueberries, chocolate mint, cedar chest, and crushed rocks, with a waft of clove oil. The concentrated, full-bodied palate does not disappoint, featuring very firm, beautifully ripe tannins and a lively line to frame the generous fruit, finishing long and layered.

Sourced from specific blocks of estate-grown fruit, the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Hillside Select is another highly successful vintage. All Cabernet Sauvignon aged 32 months in 100% new French oak, it boasts intense aromas of pencil shavings, dark loam, cassis and plum on the nose, while the palate is full-bodied, super-ripe, rich, dense and concentrated—a truly impressive California vin de garde. Tannic but ripe, it finishes long and firm on the finish, adding a hint of mocha. To be released in September 2023, it's a strong showing and hopefully an indication that quality will remain high under the new ownership.