1999 Shafer, Hillside Select, Stags Leap District 1×1.5L

Robert Parker 93

A vintage I was never as fond of as many of my colleagues, the 1999 Shafer Cabernet Sauvignon Hillside Select certainly proved that they may have been more correct. Certainly not one of the all-time Shafer Hillsides, but nevertheless, a youthful, tannic, firm, structured wine, with more intellectual than hedonistic appeal at age 16, this wine has a dense purple color to the rim, notes of licorice, tobacco leaf, blackcurrants, followed by relatively high acids for a Hillside Select (or at least they present themselves that way) with some rather massive tannin. This is a big, medium to full-bodied wine with a Bordeaux-like structure imposed on it. It’s still moving in the right direction, and should hit its peak in another 4-5 years and then last for 15-20. [31/08/2014]

Anticipated maturity: 2018-2038

Vinous 95

Bright, saturated ruby. Very ripe aromas of black cherry, licorice, molten chocolate, mint and minerals; some very ripe suggestions. Generous, plush and powerful if still youthful and brooding. The flavors of dark berries and spices show a chocolatey ripeness as well as a savory tobacco quality. Conveys a strong impression of depth and a tactile impression of extract. This thick, savory wine finishes with strong but suave tannins and terrific breadth and length, filling the mouth without turning ponderous. Very impressive! (14.9% alcohol) [Stephen Tanzer, 09/05/2019]

Anticipated maturity: 2019-2036