SHAFER “Red Shoulder Ranch” Chardonnay 2017

(Carneros, Napa Valley, CA) $50

There’s one time of year when I treat myself to a bottle of luxurious, expensive chardonnay, and that’s now, during the holidays. This year, it’s going to be the 2017 Shafer “Red Shoulder Ranch”—a chardonnay so exciting and complex, it stops you in your tracks. Every molecule of this wine is vibrating with a tapestry of flavors (minerals, mandarin oranges, crème brûlée, exotic citrus, tropical fruits, and a beautiful earthiness). And the texture… well, the texture is where silk meets velvet meets cream. Many wine drinkers know and love Shafer’s powerful cabernets; their chardonnay is a secret surprise. (14.9% abv).

94 points KM

Available at Vivino.com