Harlan Estate 2018

Winemaker Tasting Notes: The aromas are decidedly young and vibrant, yet the ubiquitous forest floor elements––normally veiled––are illuminated in vivid detail. There is an innate grace as the wine follows the natural contours of the palate like the slopes upon which the vines reside.Deep and layered, there is resilient energy and strength present. In the finish, more refined details emerge around its confident structure. The tannins have a delicate, engraved quality, each face demonstrating a fine filigree of tannins in layered sequence.The 2018 is almost celebratory. It speaks of a certain harmony of nature and the unbroken chain of those who have tended to this place over time. 100 Points - James Suckling “Classy earth, oak and bay-leaf character on the nose, together with dark fruit, such as currants and blackberries. Forest flowers, too. Full-to medium-bodied, linear and tight with coolness and freshness. Mint and spearmint to the dark fruit. Lasts a long time. Such balance and intensity. Tight now, but great energy and length this year. Incredibly sophisticated and seductive. A joy to taste now, but try in 2025.” 97-100 Points - Robert Parker “The 2018 Harlan Estate was tasted as a barrel sample, to be bottled in March. Deep garnet-purple in color, it needs a fair bit of swirling to reveal a wonderfully fragrant perfume of blueberry pie, chocolate- covered cherries, mulberries and black currant pastilles with hints of cumin seed, rose oil and black olives. Medium to full-bodied, the taut, grainy-textured palate delivers remarkable energy with compelling tension and a long, graceful, earth-laced finish.”