Shafer Vineyards TD-9 2022, 75cl

TD-9 is a proprietary red blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Malbec that celebrates a bold move. 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 their 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 wine. "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. Drink or hold." 94 points. James Suckling, jamessuckling.com (October 2024)