2018 Shafer 'Relentless' Syrah Napa Valley
A rich elegant blend originating from a rugged, sloping vineyard planted in the chaparral foothills of the Vaca Mountains. This site produces a consistently graceful wine with plenty of power. It has a tenacious backbone of Syrah dominated flavors with blueberry, smoke and char aromas leading to an opulent palate of bramble fruit, black pepper, and bacon. It certainly lives up to its name.
“Year in year out, [Shafer] is one of the superstar wineries, not only in Napa Valley and all of California, but in the entire world...Today, this is a winery that does everything about as perfect as can be. They have kept their feet, heads and egos grounded, and continue to kick proverbial ass with every vintage.” – Parker In 1972 John Shafer departed his 23 year career in publishing and moved to the Napa Valley to pursue a second career in wine. Fortuitously, he found a 210 acre parcel in the Stags Leap District and set up shop. His first task at hand was that of replanting the vineyards, some of which dated back to the 1920s. The Shafer family crushed their first Cabernet in 1978 and began building their winery the next year. Needless to say, that first release became not only a benchmark but a legend in its own right. Eventually they expanded their beautiful hillside acreage and in 1983, John's son, Doug Shafer, became winemaker after graduating from U.C. Davis with a degree in enology and viticulture. Since then, Doug has stepped up to becoming the company's president and has passed the winemaking reins over to Elias Fernandez. From their somewhat modest beginnings, Shafer has blossomed into a world-class estate that is nationally and internationally renowned.
Jeb Dunnuck
The 2018 Relentless might be the finest vintage of this I’ve tasted. Based on 90% Syrah and 10% Petite Sirah, this beauty boasts a saturated purple hue as well as a full-bodied array of ripe blackberries, peppery herbs, smoked game, and spring flowers. Pure, concentrated, and plush, it nevertheless stays graceful and light on its feet, with a great finish. I love it today, but it’s going to keep for 10-15 years.
James Suckling
A young wine with superb depth and polish that shows great depth and brightness. Full and focused with blue fruit and long, fine tannins that are compact and energetic. Slate. Graphite. Sophisticated and curated. So beautiful to try now, but be patient and Best after 2026.
Wine Spectator
A compelling blend that marries deep structure with richness and polish. Features accents of black cherry, grilled anise and smoked pepper, with refined tannins on the finish.