Shafer 'TD-9' Red Blend

Shafer TD-9 Red Blend – Napa Valley | Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot & Malbec

Shafer TD-9 is a bold and characterful proprietary red blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Malbec from the celebrated Shafer Vineyards in Napa Valley — a wine that celebrates one of the great leaps of faith in California wine history.

In 1973, in the space of a few months, John Shafer went from riding morning commuter trains in Chicago to teaching himself to drive a TD-9 tractor in his newly acquired Napa Valley vineyard. He had never grown grapes or made wine in his life. That spirit of risk-taking, adventure, and reinvention still guides Shafer Vineyards today — and it inspired the creation of this wine. The TD-9 is named in honor of that tractor, and the bold move that started it all.

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Rich dark fruit, cassis, plum, warm spice, and a hint of mocha — the hallmark aromatics of a well-crafted Napa Valley red blend
• Palate: Full-bodied and generous with layers of blackberry, dark cherry, chocolate, and velvety tannins — the Merlot adding roundness and the Malbec contributing depth and color
• Finish: Long, smooth, and satisfying with lingering dark fruit, spice, and a clean, elegant Napa Valley fade

Food Pairing

Shafer TD-9 pairs magnificently with grilled ribeye, braised short ribs, lamb chops, aged cheddar, and mushroom risotto. Its bold, fruit-forward character also makes it exceptional alongside dark chocolate desserts and charcuterie.

Key Highlights

• ✔ Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot & Malbec — a bold, proprietary Napa Valley red blend
• ✔ Named after the TD-9 tractor John Shafer drove when he started the vineyard in 1973
• ✔ Celebrates the spirit of risk-taking and reinvention that defines Shafer Vineyards
• ✔ From Shafer Vineyards — one of Napa Valley's most celebrated family estates
• ✔ Available at Del Mesa Liquor with nationwide shipping

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the story behind the TD-9 name?

In 1973, John Shafer made a bold life change — leaving his career as a Chicago commuter to purchase a Napa Valley vineyard with no prior farming or winemaking experience. He taught himself to drive a TD-9 tractor and built what would become one of Napa Valley's most celebrated family estates. The TD-9 wine is named in honor of that tractor and the adventurous spirit that started it all.

What grapes are in Shafer TD-9?

Shafer TD-9 is a proprietary blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Malbec — with the Cabernet providing structure and dark fruit, the Merlot adding roundness and approachability, and the Malbec contributing depth, color, and a distinctive richness.

How does TD-9 compare to Shafer's other wines?

TD-9 is Shafer's approachable, adventure-driven red blend — more accessible than the flagship Hillside Select Cabernet Sauvignon, but sharing the same commitment to quality and Napa Valley terroir that defines all Shafer wines.

Where can I buy Shafer TD-9 Red Blend?

You can purchase it online through Del Mesa Liquor with nationwide shipping available.