LIVELY, SMOOTH & DELICIOUS. Perfumed aromas of red cherry, raspberry, red plum & cherry kirsch. Rich, juicy flavors of pure red & black fruit, red licorice, with hints of mint & toasted almonds. Round, smooth tannins make for a long, pleasant finish.

80% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon

It was the lure of wine country farming that inspired John Shafer in 1972 to make a career change, leaving behind 23 years of corporate experience to begin work in a new field. And in the fields, or rather the vineyards, is exactly where John began his new career. Adopting a hands-on approach from day one, John could be seen throughout the mid-70s riding on his tractor as he tilled the soil of his family's new estate in the foothills of the Stags Leap Palisades. Spearheading a family effort, John sets the tone for Shafer Vineyards through his casual style. A visitor to the winery will most often encounter John striding through the winery, clad in blue jeans and boots with Tucker, the family dog, in tow.