Shafer Merlot 2023
(Napa Valley, California) - [JD 93] [JS 93] [WS 93] [VM 92] [WA 90]

About the Winery:
Shafer Vineyards is an iconic family-owned winery, named one of the top 25 vineyards in the world by wine publication Wine & Spirits and “one of the world’s greatest wineries” by wine critic Robert M. Parker, Jr.

In 1973, in the space of a few months, John Shafer went from riding morning commuter trains in Chicago to teaching himself to drive a TD-9 tractor in our Napa Valley vineyard. He’d never grown grapes or made wine in his life. That spirit of risk-taking and adventure still guides Shafer today and inspired the creation of this new wine.

Since 1978 the Shafer family has produced wine in the Stags Leap District, one of the most highly-regarded winegrowing regions within Napa Valley. Shafer’s wines, including its signature wine, Hillside Select, are found in collectors’ cellars and on wine lists in top hotels and restaurants throughout the world.

The small winery is managed by Doug Shafer, son of winery founders John and Bett Shafer. Elias Fernandez is winemaker. 

Winemaker Notes
The unparalleled 2023 vintage has produced a Merlot offering abundant layers of red plum, dark cherry, and raspberry, lifted by violet and lavender florals. Notes of vanilla, baking spices, and cherry pie evoke richness, while cranberry and subtle herbs add vibrant freshness. Seamlessly integrated tannins carry through to a remarkably long, graceful finish.

Blend: 90% Merlot, 8% Cabernet Sauvignon, 2% Malbec

Ratings and Reviews

93 Points - Jeb Dunnuck:
"Based on 90% Merlot, 8% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 2% Malbec and aged 18 months in 100% new French oak, the 2023 Merlot offers up an outstanding bouquet of black cherries, graphite, spicy wood, and incense. Medium-bodied, with a round, supple mouthfeel and a great finish, this delicious, balanced, impeccably made Merlot will keep for 10-15 years. Drink 2025-2040." (Dec 2025)

93 Points - James Suckling:
"This is sitting on the edge of reduction with aromas of bitter chocolate, dried herbs, ink, cured meats and graphite. The midweight palate shows densely packed dark fruit and tightly wound tannins. Needs a little more time in bottle with some air before drinking. Drinkable now but best from 2027." (Jun 2025)

93 Points - Wine Spectator:
"Polished and well-structured, with handsome red and black currant flavors highlighted by spices including cinnamon, plus a touch of tomato leaf, as this persists toward refined tannins. Drink now through 2033." - Tim Fish (Feb 2026)

92 Points - Vinous Media:
"Shafer fans will be delighted to learn that the Merlot is back with the 2023. Bright acids lift a core of red fruit and blood orange. This cool-toned, refreshing Merlot is an absolute delight. Readers will find a wine of total sophistication. Drink it over the next handful of years." - Antonio Galloni (Nov 2025)

90 Points - Wine Advocate:
"The 2023 Merlot matured exclusively in new French oak barrels, giving its black cherry fruit a veneer of subtle mocha and cedar shadings. At 15.3% alcohol, it's full-bodied but also rather tart, the acids giving the palate a more streamlined shape and accentuating the otherwise soft tannins on the finish." - Joe Czerwinski (Oct 2025)