Shafer Relentless 2014

Checking in as a blend of 89% Syrah and 11% Petit Sirah, the 2014 Syrah Relentless is a killer bottle of wine that offers decadent notes of blackcurrants, barbecued meats, seaweed wrapper, lavender, exotic pepper, and liquid smoke. This is a rich, unctuous Rhône inspired blend that packs serious amounts of fruit and richness, yet the elegant, forward style of the vintage keeps it silky, polished and incredibly drinkable. While I haven't had every vintage of this cuvee (it was first made in 1999), my money is on this being up with the top handful of vintages. It's a blockbuster today (if you're oak adverse, give bottles 2-3 years) but will keep for two decades. (12/2017)

Shafer's 2014 Relentless is fabulous. The most expressive and varietally expressive of the three vintages of Relentless I tasted. In 2014, Relentless has 11% Petite Sirah, which, along with the personality of the year, kicks up the aromatics and flavors in a meaningful way. Lavender, mint, violets and crème de cassis notes are laced into the super-expressive finish. The 2014 is shaping up to be a real gem. Range: 92-95

This perennial powerhouse of a wine is a blend of 89% Syrah and 11% Petite Sirah, aged 30 months in 100% new French oak. It offers a hard-hitting intensity of stewed plum, cherry and buttery vanilla, with thick, structured tannins that are firm and integrated. Meat, black licorice and black pepper combine effortlessly and should shine bright after aging. Enjoy from 2029 and beyond. *Cellar Selection* (VB)

Well-built and quite extracted, with tightly wound blackberry, crushed stone and smoky anise notes that build momentum toward big tannins. Needs time. Syrah and Petite Sirah. Best from 2019 through 2028.