Shafer Vineyards Napa Valley Merlot Vintage 2014 Chile

Shafer Vineyards Napa Valley Merlot Vintage 2014 ChileShafer began life in 1972 when John Shafer arrived in Napa with the hope of growing his own wine. He bought a plot of land in the Stags Leap hills, and terraced and replanted the steep vineyards. The first vintage of Cabernet was 1978, and Shafer's wines have gone on to great critical acclaim. John's son Doug Shafer took over the winemaking reins in 1983. The 2014 vintage was small but excellent for the wines of California. Typical blend Merlot, 75cl

but marginally better than 1991 or 1992

12/08/2025 - 94 Points

I remember buying a case of this en premier after the late Clive Coates described this as the best Haut Batailley produced since the 1961

Tinat Roriz

is very evident in the structure

1987 is a vintage that's reputation has improved over time

"Superb clarity with yellow fruit and floral tones supported by lovely intense toasted bread

although its modern history began in 1917 when it was acquired by the Cordier family

Wine Level: Top shoulder or better

2% Petit Verdot

and layered with creamy oak

The original estate was founded in 1689 as Enclos Rauzan and became Pichon Baron in 1694