Shafer Hillside Select Cabernet Sauvignon 1996

Sadly, this wine was on its last legs. Not as good as the Dominus, but still had some strength left in it. Definite red fruits on the nose, and the palate had surprisingly moderate-to-strong tannins. However, whatever fruit the wine still had was located on the nose, with little to none continuing once it hit the tongue. After a little bit of time, the wine did show some mocha and vanillan notes. In short, I think this wine has seen better days, and I am glad I did not wait a year to open it. Three out of five stars.