2002 Shafer Cabernet Sauvignon Hillside Select, USA, California, Napa, Stags Leap, Wine Review

if Napa had First Growth designations, this would be on the list.  The Lafite of Napa.  Long history, Great wines, and a Reasonably large production.  Such consistency.  At age 22, this is cruising along without showing any old age.  Purple in color, garnet at the rim, opaque and bright.  The nose has cassis, pencil lead, cedar, smoke and just a hint of leather.  Full bodied.  Medium tannins.  Great balance.  On the palate, this is deep and complex.  Flavors of cassis, slight earthiness, char and just a bit of leather.  Long finish.  Delicious.  Great on its own, this would be classic with a steak.  It may still mature more, but it will be great for another twenty years.  Well stored bottles are a treat.