Shafer Hillside Select Cabernet Sauvignon 2018

97 points Wine Enthusiast

Shafer’s iconic, flagship wine is richly textured and flavor packed. It starts with a minty, figgy, bay-leaf aroma before full, ripe, bold black fruits, tobacco and oak spices take over the palate, accompanied by masses of velvety tannins. Excellent depth and concentration will help it age well.

98 points Wine Advocate

Made from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Hillside Select displays a deep garnet-purple color. It charges out of the gate with bold crème de cassis, blueberry pie and black cherry preserves notes, plus hints of smoked meats, fragrant earth and tar, with a fragrant waft of violets and Provence herbs. Full-bodied, the palate is packed with muscular black fruits, supported by a solid foundation of firm, grainy tannins and compelling freshness, finishing long with an enticing herbal lift.

95 points Wine Spectator

Frankly ripe but well-focused, with blackberry and creamed boysenberry notes flowing through atop a polished structure, while cocoa and black licorice frame the finish. A subtle hint of sassafras lingers on the finish, adding textural nuance. This has the stuffing to age well, too. Drink now.

99 points James Suckling

So much black licorice in this, together with tar, blackcurrants, blackberries and slate. Full-bodied, but very toned and focused, with polish and energy. Extremely fine tannins and wonderful length. All about balance and purity. Gorgeous now, but this will age for decades to come. Great finish. Better after 2026.