2023 · Red Shoulder Ranch Chardonnay

Shafer Vineyards is a long-established Napa Valley producer based in the Stags Leap District, founded in 1972 by John Shafer and run as a multi-generational family estate for nearly 50 years. The Shafer family owns and farms its vineyards, with a strong focus on estate-grown wines including Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Syrah, Merlot, Malbec and Petite Sirah; flagship bottlings include Hillside Select, One Point Five, Relentless, TD-9 and Red Shoulder Ranch Chardonnay. Winemaking continuity is a hallmark here: Elias Fernandez joined in 1984 and became winemaker in 1994, helping shape a house style noted for opulence, balance and elegance. Shafer also cites a 35-year commitment to sustainability, including cover crops, sheep grazing, solar power, water capture and reuse, lighter bottles, and natural pest control.