December 31, 2020 - Low neck fill. Cork almost soaked through but came out in one piece. Good color in glass with obvious browning. Slightly musty (not corked) bouquet. Nice fruit on palate but obviously fading. Dusty tannins in finish. Nice but a wilting flower. Some sediment. Drink up!
December 30, 2017 - Amazing still going strong after 21 years
Smooth - getting better after opening
Had to decant - cork died
March 22, 2017 - Nice bottle. This one in particular was on a downhill slide, but do not think it was stored under optimal conditions. Still quite enjoyable.
September 12, 2014 - Beautiful merlot that continues to open up 2 hours after opening - surprised that the bottle is still good for a 1996!
July 29, 2012 - This wine drank very well. Still had good structure even though past the recommended drinking window
June 25, 2012 - Wow, still holding up great and possibly better than ever. Subtle nose but the flavors are bold. Balanced, with more muted fruit, but warm classic Napa red character. Long beautiful finish.
March 12, 2010 - The experience reminded me more of an mid-80's Napa Cab.
Same characteristics....
Very happy w/ this choice...
Nose bleeded of dark, dark fruit but on the palette more balance, refinement.
Caught some creme de cassis, smoky old leather and some delicate mushroom...
Excellent value for 50/bot
September 25, 2008 - There are wines that I want to drink, and there are wines that I really should drink. This was the later. My experience with older Shafer Merlot’s has not been great, so I did not hold high expectations for this bottle. I think I gauged it about right. It’s old and tired, severely faded fruit but with a nice spicy nose. Elevated acidity and pepper in the mouth, medium body finish with some tannic element at the end. This is as good as it gets for this Shafer.
December 8, 2007 - Enjoyed during our annual Festivus get together. Very smooth, mellow flavors of tobacco, dark fruit. Color is turning brownish. Drink up.
November 18, 2007 - Tightly wound with rough edges but still plenty of fruit remains.