2022 Shafer TD9 Merlot Cabernet Sauvignon Petit Verdot, Napa Valley

A full-bodied while refined Cabernet Sauvignon, the TD9 cuvée delivers the strength and generosity so characteristic of Shafer wine. Aromas and flavors of cassis, ripe blackberries and freshly cracked pine fill the mouth, leading into a lengthy and expressive finish of graphite and warming spices

95 points wineenthusiast.com

So full-bodied, broad and ripe-tasting. It gives a mouthful of indulgent fruit flavors on an agreeable texture. Moderate to full tannins lift dark plum, dried cherry, subtle vanilla bean and cocoa accents.

94 points jamessuckling.com

Shafer TD-9 is a plush and polished red blend from Napa Valley that beautifully marries Merlot’s supple charm with the structure of Cabernet Sauvignon and the depth of Petit Verdot. Produced by Shafer Vineyards in the Stags Leap District, TD-9 is named after the International Harvester TD-9 tractor that John Shafer drove when he first arrived in Napa in the 1970s, a nod to the family’s pioneering spirit. The wine debuted with the 2014 vintage, quickly earning acclaim for its generosity, elegance, and seamless balance.

The fruit is sourced from Shafer’s estate vineyards and select premium sites across Napa Valley. These parcels sit on well-drained alluvial and volcanic soils, benefiting from warm days and cool nights that allow for long, even ripening. Merlot leads the blend, bringing plush dark fruit and roundness, while Cabernet Sauvignon adds backbone, cassis notes, and fine tannins. A smaller portion of Petit Verdot contributes inky colour, spice, and structure. The grapes are harvested by hand, fermented in small lots, and then matured for around 20 months in new French oak barrels, lending polish and complexity.

In the glass, TD-9 is deep garnet with aromas of blackberries, blackcurrants, plum compote, and violets, layered with espresso, sweet spice, and a hint of graphite. The palate is full bodied yet silky, showing layers of ripe dark fruit, chocolate, and savoury herbs framed by refined tannins. The finish is long and harmonious, carrying both richness and freshness. It’s a blend that captures Shafer’s signature style of power delivered with poise.

TD-9 pairs beautifully with grilled ribeye, braised short ribs, herb-crusted lamb, or mushroom ragù. Its plush texture also makes it a luxurious partner for duck confit or truffled pasta. While approachable on release, it has the structure to evolve gracefully for 10 to 15 years, gaining further complexity with age.