The 2012 Shafer Cabernet Sauvignon Hillside Select is a highly acclaimed red wine from the Stag's Leap District in Napa, California. This 100% estate-grown Cabernet Sauvignon has garnered significant praise from professional reviewers, consistently ranking among the top wines in its category.

Robert Parker's Wine Advocate awarded this wine a perfect score of 100, describing it as "one of the world’s greatest Cabernet Sauvignons." According to the review, the wine is aged in 100% new oak for 32 months and bottled unfiltered. Robert Parker notes the "incredible notes of charcoal, graphite and subtle toast," adding that the wine's purity and multidimensional mouthfeel are "flawless." He suggests that the 2012 vintage has an "extravagant opulence and density" and could age for 25 to 50 years.

Wine Spectator also gave the wine high marks, with a score of 96. The review highlights its complexity, smooth texture, and "seductive creamy mocha oak presence." The flavors of anise and cedar make for a long and expansive aftertaste. Wine Spectator recommends drinking this wine now through 2032, noting its remarkable balance and depth.

Vinous gave the 2012 vintage a score of 98, praising it for being in a "great spot now" and calling it a "total charmer." Antonio Galloni of Vinous mentions the wine's medium body and notes of succulent red cherry, plum, kirsch, and mint. He also observes the early signs of pipe tobacco, spice, and cedar, indicating that the wine remains "young, vibrant and full of life."

Wine Enthusiast also awarded the wine a 98, describing it as "highly sought-after" and "perennially beautiful and brawny." The review notes the wine's lush profile, with flavors of tobacco, tea, and firm tannins dusted in smoky clove scents. It suggests that the youthful blackberry and cherry flavors will benefit from additional aging.

James Suckling and Decanter gave the wine scores of 93 each. James Suckling highlighted its "old-school and port-like" palate with masses of blackcurrant, blackberry, chocolate, and cedar. Decanter noted its "fragrantly ripe blue-black fruit, incense and graphite," describing it as "comparatively accessible and easy-going for a Hillside Select of this age."

Finally, Jeff Leve from TheWineCellarInsider.com gave the wine a score of 97, emphasizing its inky color and aromatics of licorice, black cherry liqueur, black and blue fruit, smoke, and vanilla. He recommends giving it at least 7 years to age for an optimal experience.

Overall, the 2012 Shafer Cabernet Sauvignon Hillside Select is a standout wine with a strong reputation for quality, complexity, and aging potential.