The 2021 Shafer Cabernet Sauvignon One Point Five from Napa Valley's renowned Stags Leap District is a masterful tribute to timeless winemaking and family heritage. This vintage boasts a rich composition of 94% Cabernet Sauvignon, accented with Petite Verdot, Merlot, and Malbec, aged 20 months in premium French oak. The wine enchants with vibrant aromas of black cherry, crème de cassis, and black plum, enhanced by lavender and savory herbs. On the palate, it delivers velvety tannins intertwined with layers of dark plum, blueberry, and cocoa, complemented by subtle notes of espresso, cedar, and baking spices. With a full-bodied structure and balanced elegance, this Cabernet achieves a seamless finish and promises decades of aging potential, making it a prized addition for collectors or a luxurious companion for special occasions.
Process & Profile
Shafer Vineyards meticulously creates the One Point Five Cabernet Sauvignon, utilizing grapes from the Stags Leap District and additional select Napa Valley sites. The 2021 vintage is a masterful blend composed of 94% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Petite Verdot, 2% Merlot, and 1% Malbec. Aged for 20 months in 100% new French oak barrels, the wine benefits from Napa Valley's unique microclimates, volcanic soils, and Stags Leap's signature cool evening breezes. With an alcohol content of 15.3%, it offers both richness and finesse.
This process yields a full-bodied wine with bold structure and seamlessly integrated tannins, promising decades of aging potential while retaining immediate drinkability.
Tasting Notes
Shafer One Point Five is celebrated for its deep, layered flavors and luxurious texture. The wine opens with lush aromatics of black cherry, crème de cassis, and black plum, complemented by hints of lavender and savory herbs. On the palate, it unfolds rich flavors of dark plums, blueberries, and cocoa, wrapped in velvety tannins. Subtle layers of baking spices, espresso, cedar, and mocha add depth, while a polished, long finish makes it a standout among Napa Valley Cabernets.
Critics have praised the 2021 vintage for its sophistication and balance:
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Wine Enthusiast awarded it 96 points, noting its concentrated fruit flavors and potential for long cellaring.
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Wine Spectator highlighted its well-integrated structure and generous blackberry and boysenberry puree flavors.
What Makes It Special
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Legacy & Craftsmanship: Honoring the father-and-son partnership of John and Doug Shafer, One Point Five symbolizes the timeless elegance of Napa Valley winemaking.
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Sustainability Focus: Shafer Vineyards is a pioneer in eco-conscious wine production, having eliminated insecticides and herbicides and operating entirely on solar energy since 2004.
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Stags Leap Terroir: Famous for its volcanic soils and microclimates, the region lends unique depth and complexity to the wine's character.
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Critical Acclaim: Consistently receiving high scores from critics, the One Point Five Cabernet Sauvignon is recognized as a world-class representation of Napa Valley.
How to Enjoy
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Pairing Suggestions: The bold flavors and velvety tannins of One Point Five make it an excellent companion to red meats like ribeye or venison, as well as dishes featuring earthy mushrooms or rich sauces.
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Serving Tips: Serve at 60–65°F (15–18°C) to highlight its aromatic profile. Decant for about an hour if consumed young to enhance the wine's complexity.
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Aging Potential: While enjoyable now, cellaring for 5–10 years unlocks its full potential, as the tannins soften and flavors evolve.
Shafer One Point Five Cabernet Sauvignon is more than just a wine—it's a tribute to heritage, craftsmanship, and the unparalleled beauty of Napa Valley. Perfect for collectors and casual enthusiasts alike, it elevates any occasion with its timeless elegance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the tasting profile of the Shafer One Point Five Cabernet Sauvignon 2021?
The 2021 Shafer One Point Five Cabernet Sauvignon boasts lush and complex flavors, including black cherry, crème de cassis, black plum, and blueberries. These are accented by notes of mocha, cocoa, espresso, lavender, and savory herbs. Subtle hints of baking spices, cedar, and graphite enhance its rich profile, while velvety, well-integrated tannins create a smooth and luxurious texture.
What grape varieties are used in the 2021 vintage?
The 2021 vintage is a blend composed of 94% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Petit Verdot, 2% Merlot, and 1% Malbec. This combination is aged for 20 months in 100% new French oak barrels, enhancing its complexity and structure.
How long can I age the Shafer One Point Five Cabernet Sauvignon 2021?
This wine has excellent aging potential. While it's enjoyable now, it will develop even greater complexity and richness with proper cellaring. Many suggest it will reach its peak between 2027 and 2037, making it a great choice for collectors.
What makes the Shafer One Point Five Cabernet Sauvignon unique?
This wine honors the partnership between John and Doug Shafer, representing "one and a half" generations of winemaking. Crafted in the renowned Stags Leap District of Napa Valley, the wine reflects the region's iconic style with its bold flavors and elegant balance. The meticulous winemaking process and sustainable vineyard practices add to its appeal.
What foods pair well with this wine?
Shafer One Point Five pairs beautifully with hearty dishes such as grilled steaks, lamb, or rich pasta dishes. It also complements roasted vegetables, aged cheeses, and even dark chocolate desserts, thanks to its rich and balanced flavor profile.
What is the alcohol content of the 2021 vintage?
The alcohol content for the 2021 Shafer One Point Five Cabernet Sauvignon is 15.3%, reflecting its full-bodied and robust nature.
Why is it called "One Point Five"?
The name "One Point Five" refers to the generational partnership between John and Doug Shafer, symbolizing their work as more than just a second-generation duo but as "a generation and a half".
What is the ideal way to serve this wine?
To fully enjoy its complexity, decant the wine for at least 30 minutes before serving. This process allows it to breathe, softening its tannins and enhancing its flavors. Serve it at about 60-65°F (15-18°C) for an optimal experience.