Shafer 2017 TD-9 Red Blend, Napa Valley

TD-9 is a proprietary blend 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 his 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 new wine. Grapes for this blend come from Stags Leap District, Yountville, and a vineyard in the foothills of the Vaca Mountains just south of Stags Leap District. 62% Merlot, 22% Malbec and 16% Cabernet Sauvignon aged 20 months in 60 gallon French oak barrels (100% new: Allier and Tronçais).

94 points from Tasting Panel saying "Dark ruby color with a rich plum nose and a lovely, smooth texture; lush with depth, intensity, and elegance."

Jeb Dunnuck just scored this 92 points saying "the 2017 TD-9 Proprietary Red Blend is mostly Merlot yet includes 22% Malbec and a small amount of Cabernet Sauvignon. Deep purple-hued with sweet aromas of jammy blackberries, spiced cherries, herbes de Provence, and dried flowers, it is a wonderfully textured, medium to full-bodied, balanced red with sweet tannins and a great finish. It’s going to evolve nicely for 10-12 years."

Wine Enthusiast Magazine scored this 92 points saying "Blending 62% Merlot, 22% Malbec and 16% Cabernet Sauvignon, winemaker Elias Fernandez shows his skill, producing a thick, earthy and spicy red with vibrant red fruit. Ripe, firm tannins add weight and power to the full-bodied blockbuster, as toasted oak seals the finish."

Wine Spectator scored this 92 points saying "Rich and full of dense and spicy dark plum, dried blackberry and mocha flavors. Dark chocolate and smoky notes show on the ripe finish, with dried savory herbal accents. Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Malbec. Drink now through 2023."