The 2006 Relentless may be even better. It possesses an opaque purple hue as well as a grapy, smoky perfume displaying scents of roasted meats, blackberries, licorice, and charcoal. This packed and stacked, full-bodied 2006 should drink beautifully for 10-15 years. (Not yet released) Celebrating 30 years of consistent quality and both critical and commercial success, this family run winery remains one of the most admirable operations in California. The Shafers have had tremendous success with their Relentless, which was first released in 1999. A blend of 80% Syrah and 20% Petite Sirah that spends 32 months in 100% new French oak, it is a remarkably consistent offering that rarely displays much oak. The Syrah is from Napa’s cool-climate Oak Knoll sector. One of the world’s most prodigious Cabernet Sauvignons is Shafer’s 2,000-case cuvee called Hillside Select. Always 100% Cabernet Sauvignon aged in 100% new French oak for a whopping 32 months, it boasts a gorgeous track record dating back to the early nineties, and just about every recent vintage has flirted with perfection. Tel. (707) 944-2877; Fax (707) 944-9454

The 2006 Relentless may be even better. It possesses an opaque purple hue as well as a grapy, smoky perfume displaying scents of roasted meats, blackberries, licorice, and charcoal. This packed and stacked, full-bodied 2006 should drink beautifully for 10-15 years. (Not yet released)Celebrating 30 years of consistent quality and both critical and commercial success, this family run winery remains one of the most admirable operations in California. The Shafers have had tremendous success with their Relentless, which was first released in 1999. A blend of 80% Syrah and 20% Petite Sirah that spends 32 months in 100% new French oak, it is a remarkably consistent offering that rarely displays much oak. The Syrah is from Napa’s cool-climate Oak Knoll sector. One of the world’s most prodigious Cabernet Sauvignons is Shafer’s 2,000-case cuvee called Hillside Select. Always 100% Cabernet Sauvignon aged in 100% new French oak for a whopping 32 months, it boasts a gorgeous track record dating back to the early nineties, and just about every recent vintage has flirted with perfection.Tel. (707) 944-2877; Fax (707) 944-9454

Dense, rich and chewy, with tightly wound mineral, graphite, plum and berry flavors that are full-blown and concentrated. This gains depth and nuance on the finish, while retaining its structure and focus. Syrah and Petite Sirah. Drink now through 2016. 3,800 cases made. -JL

Another outstanding Relentless from Shafer. As usual, the wine is massively constructed and extraordinarily rich and deep in flavor, offering waves of grilled blackberries and cherries, red currants, licorice, bacon, cola, black pepper and other spices. The tannins are very big, but completely ripe and sweet. Mainly Syrah, with 16% Petite Sirah, this wine will age, but it’s really best now with hearty foods, like short ribs or lamb.——S.H.(5/1/2010)—— 94