The red wine program includes 10,000 cases of Merlot, but that production is decreasing in favor of the other reds. The dark ruby/purple-colored 2006 Merlot (84% Merlot, 9% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 7% Cabernet Franc) exhibits fleshy, red and black currant, bay leaf, and underbrush characteristics. Medium-bodied with sweet tannin, it should drink nicely for a decade. 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

A classically styled Merlot, showing appealing aromas of red currant, fresh coffee bean and spice, with supple, well-structured plum, graphite and toasty leather flavors that firm up on the finish. Drink now through 2014. 10,000 cases made. -TF

Easily Shafer’s greatest Merlot ever. Certainly its richest, with fabulously concentrated blackberry, cherry, licorice, chocolate and cinnamon spice flavors. All this is wrapped into extraordinarily sweet, refined tannins. Addictively drinkable, but not a long ager. Best now and through 2012.——S.H.