2010 Shafer 'Red Shoulder Ranch' Napa Valley Chardonnay

About This Wine

In 1972, John Shafer left a 23-year career in publishing and moved to the Napa Valley.

After purchasing a 210-acre estate in the Stags Leap District, the Shafer family faced the arduous task of replanting the existing vineyards, which dated to the 1920s, and terracing the steep and rocky hillsides, eventually expanding the vineyard to 50 acres.

Evolving from grape growers to vintners, the Shafers crushed their first Cabernet Sauvignon grapes in 1978, and began construction on their winery a year later. Doug Shafer became winemaker in 1983 after graduating from U.C. Davis with a degree in enology and viticulture. A year later, Elias Fernandez was named assistant winemaker. Together, they have worked closely to forge the Shafer style of quality, consistency and elegance.

Unlike many California Chardonnays, Shafer’s single-vineyard bottling from the family’s Carneros ranch does not undergo malolactic fermentation. That’s why it’s bright, refreshing and fruit-forward — a perfect foil for simple fish dishes.

About Chardonnay

Relatively easy to grow in a variety of locations. Consistently produces some of the world's great white wines. Complex, full, rich and fruity with soft edges and moderate acidity. Offers rich and intense fruit flavors of apple, fig, melon, pear, peach, pineapple, along with creamy yeast spice, honey, butter and hazelnut flavors.

Tasting Notes

• Grape Composition:100% Chardonnay
• Grape Source:Estate Red Shoulder Ranch in Napa’s Carneros District
• Aromas & Flavors:Honeysuckle, Apricot, Melon and Pineapple
• Aging Vessels:75% French Oak Barrels and 25% Stainless Steel Tanks
• When to Drink:Now Through 2015
• Food Pairing Suggestionhalibut with an apricot/rosemary glaze.

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