TD-9

The TD-9 from Shafer Vineyards is a Cabernet Sauvignon from the Napa Valley that bears the signature of a winery that has been one of California's most reliable addresses for decades. Ripe fruits, lavender, and herbs open the nose—a combination typical of the Stag's Leap-influenced sites of the Napa Valley.

John Shafer founded the winery in 1972 after leaving a career as a publisher. He replanted the vines dating back to the 1920s and terraced the steep, rocky vineyards. The very first vintage in 1978 won the San Francisco Vintners Club Tasting and beat Châteaux like Margaux and Latour in a blind tasting a decade later. Today, the family farms over 80 hectares in top sites from Oak Knoll to Carneros—Elias Fernandez has been the winemaker since 1994.

On the palate, the TD-9 shows cherry, blackberry, and strawberry, underpinned by licorice and a distinct slate minerality. The acidity remains lively, the tannins are ripe and well-integrated—a dry red wine with structure without harshness.

Pairs with rack of lamb with rosemary jus, grilled rib-eye, or an aged Pecorino. Drinking temperature: 17–18 °C.