SHAFER VINEYARDS Cabernet Sauvignon 'Hillside Select' - Stag's Leap District, Napa Valley 2014 Bottle

Description

The 2014 Shafer Hillside Select showcases refined elegance, characterised by lush flavours of blackcurrant, blackberry, and dark plum. Intricate notes of mocha and graphite, along with a hint of spice, add depth and complexity to this impressive Cabernet Sauvignon. Its silky, ripe tannins and balanced acidity contribute to a graceful structure, while a long, persistent finish invites contemplation. Celebrated for its maturity and vibrancy, this wine exemplifies the exceptional quality and ageing potential of the estate. James Suckling awarded it 99 points, praising its balance and purity, while The Wine Advocate recognised its potential, scoring it 98+. With the drinking window from 2024 to 2034, this elegant wine promises to age beautifully, providing enjoyment for years to come.

*****

JAMES SUCKLING 99 points
So much black licorice in this, together with tar, blackcurrants, blackberries and slate. Full-bodied, but very toned and focused, with polish and energy. Extremely fine tannins and wonderful length. All about balance and purity. Gorgeous now, but this will age for decades to come. Great finish. Better after 2026.

THE WINE ADVOCATE 98+ points
Drink Date 2025 - 2050
Reviewed by Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Issue Date 30th Nov 2021, Source End of November 2021, The Wine Advocate
Made from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Hillside Select displays a deep garnet-purple color. It charges out of the gate with bold crème de cassis, blueberry pie and black cherry preserves notes, plus hints of smoked meats, fragrant earth and tar, with a fragrant waft of violets and Provence herbs. Full-bodied, the palate is packed with muscular black fruits, supported by a solid foundation of firm, grainy tannins and compelling freshness, finishing long with an enticing herbal lift.

VINOUS 98 points
The 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon Hillside Select is a classic wine for the era. It is deep, dark and explosive, with serious depth and tons of texture. Black cherry, espresso, licorice, plum, incense and new leather all come together, building toward its huge, resonant finish. At age ten, the 2014 remains quite youthful. Blood orange, cinnamon and leather linger on the potent, driving close. - Antonio Galloni

WINE ENTHUSIAST 97 points
The famous wine lives up to its mighty reputation in this vintage. Densely packed in tones of red currant, cassis and cocoa powder, the palate offers a sublime texture that lingers despite an overall powerful punch of structure and tannin. Elements of crushed rock and black licorice unfold on the finish. Enjoy from 2024–2034. — Virginie Boone

JANCIS ROBINSON 17+ points
Shafer's flagship wine. From The Sunspot, John’s Folly and Bench blocks, all in Stags Leap District. 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, matured for three months in 100% Allier and Tronçais barrels.
Deep crimson. Much fresher on the nose than it used to be. Tannins more in evidence than in the less expensive Shafer wines – more rigour. Chalky finish without obvious heat despite the alcohol level. Good graphite undertow. The merest hint of cocoa. Not the most glorious, complex or persistent finish but certainly a well-made wine. (JR)