Shafer Vineyards Syrah Relentless 2014 (750ML)

96 JD / 95+ WA / 94 VM

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. Jeb Dunnuck

The 2014 Relentless, made up of 89% Syrah and 11% Petite Sirah, is deep garnet-purple with a pronounced nose of black plums, blackberries and black cherries with touches of fragrant earth, black pepper and Indian spices plus a waft of lavender. Very big, full-bodied, opulent and laden with vibrant black fruits and spicy layers, it has firm, rounded tannins and seamless freshness, finishing long and peppery. LPB – The Wine Advocate

The 2014 Relentless is just as impressive from bottle as it was from barrel. Inky, voluptuous and wonderfully vivid, the 2014 has so much to offer. A rush of inky blue/purplish fruit, exotic spice and floral notes build into the powerful, brooding finish. Two thousand fourteen is an exceptional vintage for Relentless, Shafer's Syrah/Petite Sirah blend. Antonio Galloni – Vinous Media