Shafer Relentless Napa Valley Syrah 2018 is a bold and complex red wine that showcases the unique terroir of the region. Crafted with a blend of 89% Syrah and 11% Petite Sirah, this wine boasts an intense ruby color and aromas of blackberry, blueberry, and black cherry, with hints of vanilla, espresso, and tobacco.
On the palate, the wine is full-bodied and rich, with flavors of dark fruit, cocoa, and licorice, complemented by smooth tannins and a long, satisfying finish. The wine was aged for 30 months in 100% new French oak barrels, adding subtle notes of spice and toast to the already complex flavor profile.
This wine is a great match for hearty meat dishes like steak, lamb, or venison, and also pairs well with rich, savory cheeses. Enjoy it now or cellar for up to a decade to fully appreciate its aging potential.
Critic Ratings
Jeb Dunnuck Review – Rated 98:
A blend of 94% Syrah and 6% Petite Sirah, the 2018 Relentless looks to be just about sensational, offering a dense purple color as well as rich, loaded notes of blackberries, currants, smoked meats, peppery spice, and violets. Reminding me of a great Cornas on steroids with its gamy, exotic character paired with beautiful richness, it has fabulous purity, ripe, polished tannins, and a great finish. This will undoubtedly be a great vintage for this cuvée, and my money is on it being one of the best yet.
James Suckling Review – Rated 97:
A young wine with superb depth and polish that shows great depth and brightness. Full and focused with blue fruit and long, fine tannins that are compact and energetic. Slate. Graphite. Sophisticated and curated. So beautiful to try now, but be patient and Best after 2026.
Tasting Panel – Rated 96:
In its 20th vintage – and possibly its most dynamic – this blend of 76% Syrah and 24% Petite Syrah aged 30 months in new, 60-gallon French oak barrels. Teeth-gripping, chalky tannins and dried violets flourish while white-peppered blueberry preserves and anise envelop the palate, whose balanced and structured density is mind-blowing.
Wine Spectator Review – Rated 94:
A compelling blend that marries deep structure with richness and polish. Features accents of black cherry, grilled anise and smoked pepper, with refined tannins on the finish.
| Winery |
Shafer |
| Country |
United States |
| Region |
Napa Valley, California
|
| Year |
2018
|
| Grape Varietal |
Shiraz
|
|
| Size |
750 ML |
| ABV |
15.8% |
| Wine Style |
Red Wine |
