Shafer Vineyards Red Shoulder Ranch Chardonnay Napa Valley 2022

The wines of Shafer are no secret. They are known world-wide; famous for their decadent red wines and opulent Chardonnays. John Shafer bought this Stags Leap District property in 1972, pulling up the prohibition era strongholds of Zinfandel, Carignane, and Sauvignon Vert to plant Cabernet Sauvignon a year later. Since their first commercial vintage in 1978, they have skyrocketed to one of the most iconic wine brands in the valley.  The estate now encompasses 240 acres of vineyard, including the Red Shoulder Ranch in Carneros, which is named for the red-shouldered hawks and other birds of prey on the property that assist in maintaining sustainable farming practices in the vineyard.

The 100% Chardonnay was whole-cluster pressed before native fermentation in oak and stainless steel.  Malolactic fermentation was halted and the wine aged for 8 months in 40% new French oak barrel and 60% stainless steel barrel.

"2022 Red Shoulder Ranch is a refreshing, vibrant Chardonnay characterized by its lush, glass-filling aromas of white flowers, lemon zest, and exotic fruit. On the palate it offers a graceful balance of energy and richness, with flavors of white melon, apricot, ripe pineapple, flint, honey, and Crème Brûlée. With its pure, Chablis-like acidity this vintage offers effortless structure and elegant balance with a long, delightful finish." ~Winemaker notes, Elias Fernandez