The 2004 Relentless is one of the more elegant styles they have produced. The wine exhibits a deep ruby/purple color to the rim, fine notes of blackberries, graphite, pepper, and some vanilla. Subtle smoke, oodles of fruit in a deep, full-bodied style, with sweet tannins and a silky finish are present. Despite its exuberance and front-end loaded style, I suspect this wine will last 12-15+ years.

One of NapaÆs most prominent and respected wineries, Shafer is a poster boy for remarkable and consistent quality across the board. All of this is the work of the brilliant father and son team of John and Doug Shafer as well as their long-term winemaker and vineyard manager, Elias Fernandez. With over 200-plus acres of estate holdings, and 55 surrounding their winery in Stags Leap, this is a winery that never seems to disappoint. - DEC 2008 ISSUE