2009 Shafer Cabernet Sauvignon Sunspot Vineyard (USA, California, Napa Valley, Stags Leap District)

Probably one of the greatest young wines I have sampled. This is sure primary, but if you look deep enough you will find the goodies hiding. Midnight black fruits of currant, and blackberries. Pure and super focused with gobs of stuffing. There is some spring flowers and rubbed leather. It's plush and elegant all while being brash and boisterous. Multi-layered and pretty, this has near perfect balance. When this wine gets some time on it, it will be incredible, some things you just.....know. 96 pts

2006 Shafer Cabernet Sauvignon Hillside Select (USA, California, Napa Valley, Stags Leap District)

Dark and opaque. The nose has a refined cassis and black cherry with some sweet undertones that are very nice indeed. The first thing you spot on the nose is the purity and class. This has some plush creme de cassis, Kirsch Royal, black cherry & cola. A very lilty balance with a lush under-body and velvety feel that really makes it shine. Long and precise, this is focused and full of Grandeur. 93 pts

2007 Miner Family Syrah La Diligence Stagecoach Vineyard (USA, California, Napa Valley)

What an all around near perfect expression of Cali-Syrah. There is some beautiful black fruits of blackberries and plum. Some steamed meat, bacon fat, blueberry pie and boysenberries. Perfect balance with a med/light body and tons of elegance. Wonderful structure 'involved' tannins and long finish. Somewhere between the US and Northern Rhone, this has the best of both worlds in a nice little package. Made from Stagecoach fruit. One I will seek out. (93 pts.)