Shafer Vineyards

Red Shoulder Ranch Chardonnay

9.164 ratings
9.38 pro ratings
Carneros, North Coast, California, USA
Chardonnay
Duck, Shellfish, Goose, Mushrooms, Manchego & Parmesan, Game, Pork, Squash & Root Vegetables, Chicken, Turkey, Cheddar & Gruyere, Meaty & Oily Fish, White Fish, Shellfish, Crab & Lobster, Cream Sauces
Top Notes For
Sipping Fine Wine

Tasted ‘13 & ‘14 together. Wine bears the vineyard named to honor the Red-shouldered Hawks and other birds of prey that play a vital role in sustainable farming practices. Bright yellow with aromas of tropical fruits and sweet floral scents. Aged for 14 months, 75% in new French oak and 25% in stainless. On the palate sweet melon, pineapple and peach flavors and citrus notes, subtle yet complex and well balanced. Lingering finish, savory, ending with mineral tones and toasty oak. Consistent. Outstanding!

Tasted ‘13 & ‘14 together. Wine bears the vineyard named to honor the Red-shouldered Hawks and other birds of prey that play a vital role in sustainable farming practices. Bright yellow with aromas of tropical fruits and sweet floral scents. Aged for 14 months, 75% in new French oak and 25% in stainless. On the palate sweet melon, pineapple and peach flavors and citrus notes, subtle yet complex and well balanced. Lingering finish, savory, ending with mineral tones and toasty oak. Consistent. Outstanding!

Jan 5th, 2018
Aaron Means

Good in that oaky way!

Good in that oaky way!

Nov 5th, 2017
Mike R
9.2

What a great afternoon

Tune up for the WNH in November

Love you guys

Thanks
@David L

What a great afternoon

Tune up for the WNH in November

Love you guys

Thanks
@David L

Sep 16th, 2017
David L

Haven't had this in years. I always remember this being so over-the-top. Not this 2014. When you need a California Chardonnay on the fly. -at Nick's Fishmarket, Maui

Haven't had this in years. I always remember this being so over-the-top. Not this 2014. When you need a California Chardonnay on the fly. -at Nick's Fishmarket, Maui

Aug 20th, 2017
Bob Bryden

Founder The Lake Sommelier, LLC, Author Wine Talk

9.4

Wow! One of smoothest California Chards with silky, luscious mouthfeel and a bouquet of aromas that are balanced as well as electric and oh so satisfying. A truly stunning wine.

Wow! One of smoothest California Chards with silky, luscious mouthfeel and a bouquet of aromas that are balanced as well as electric and oh so satisfying. A truly stunning wine.

May 21st, 2017
Miles Perry

An excellent Chardonnay. Rich, fruity and a touch of oaky flavor.

An excellent Chardonnay. Rich, fruity and a touch of oaky flavor.

Nov 19th, 2023
Charlie Tapp

Pineapple, Guava and oak, without being cloying. Drink now.

Pineapple, Guava and oak, without being cloying. Drink now.

Dec 4th, 2022
Rebekah Hobbs

2014 in 2022. Aromas of burnt caramel popcorn and of course vanilla. Sharply smooth with lots of ML, surprised how much I love this as I don’t usually love super oaky Chard. Funky, doesn’t taste like any I’ve ever had, lemon curd shining through.

2014 in 2022. Aromas of burnt caramel popcorn and of course vanilla. Sharply smooth with lots of ML, surprised how much I love this as I don’t usually love super oaky Chard. Funky, doesn’t taste like any I’ve ever had, lemon curd shining through.

Mar 13th, 2022
K L
9.2

Very enjoyable. Not sure it’s any better than the lynmar we drink. Definitely all the notes we enjoy though.

Very enjoyable. Not sure it’s any better than the lynmar we drink. Definitely all the notes we enjoy though.

Jul 23rd, 2019
Charlie Tapp

Butter and tropical fruit.

Butter and tropical fruit.

Jun 25th, 2019