Harlan Estate 2021

Founded in 1984 by Bill Harlan, Harlan Estate is a prestigious winegrowing estate nestled in the western hills of Oakville in Napa Valley. With a vision to create a Californian 'First Growth', the estate has become a benchmark for luxury and excellence in New World wines. Its vineyard spans approximately 240 acres, of which 40 are under vine, producing wines of remarkable depth and character.

The 2021 Harlan Estate displays a deep garnet-purple colour and opens with captivating aromas of wild blueberries, Morello cherries, violets, and crushed rock. The palate is layered and refined, offering a harmonious expression of black, red, and blue fruits with polished tannins and a medium to full-bodied frame. There is a purity and grace to this vintage, culminating in a long, poised finish. The wine is primarily composed of Cabernet Sauvignon, supported by Cabernet Franc and Merlot. It shows excellent balance and ageing potential, reflective of the estate’s meticulous vineyard and cellar practices.

100 Points - James Suckling

The aromas are subtle yet enticing with lavender and rose petal notes. So aromatic and perfumed. Lots of currants and hints of spearmint. Chanel No. 5? Medium-bodied with super fine tannins that run the length of the wine with crunchy tannins that are energetic and vivid. It grows and grows and turns almost flamboyant. Goes on for minutes with a compressed and vibrant finish. Mostly cabernet sauvignon with some cabernet franc and a tiny percent of merlot and petit verdot. Drink it now to love and understand the potential. But it will age beautifully. Try after 2030.

97 Points - Wine Spectator

This is packed with dark currant, bitter plum and blackberry paste flavors, all closely allied with a cold cast iron spine that provides a rock-solid underpinning. Flashes of ink, dried anise and roasted apple wood add terrific range through the energetic finish, as the cast iron minerality just sails on and on. This is set up for the long haul. Best from 2028 through 2045.