Founded in 1984, Harlan Estate is one of the most sought-after wineries in Napa Valley that crafts what are known as California’s “First Growth” wines.
It is located in the western hills of Oakville. The 240-acre estate sits atop the fabled Oakville benchlands, overlooking the famed Martha’s vineyards – credited for producing some of Napa’s best Cabernet.
The terroir of these terraced vineyards is a mix of different soils and topography. The multiple elevations ranging from 225 feet to 1,225 feet provide perfect drainage, helping the grapes grow slowly and ripen evenly.
The winemaking process at Harlan is under the supervision of winemaker Bob Levy and winemaker Cory Empting.
100 Points Jeb Dunnuck
Matching the perfect 2018, the 2019 Harlan Estate is deeper and richer than the Maiden and has an incredibly pure, layered perfume of ripe currants, truffle, tobacco leaf, chocolate, and gravelly earth. This carries to a full-bodied red with building yet fine tannins, incredible purity of fruit, and flawless balance. Reminding me of a First Growth from Bordeaux given its acidity and tannin balance, as well as just overall sense of class, give bottles 7-8 years and enjoy over the following 30+ years. 2030-2062
100 Points James Suckling
A wine with an endless finish that is tension-driven, with fine tannins and an energetic acidity. Medium to full body with ultra-fine tannins. Blackcurrant character. Subtle and extremely long. Thought-provoking. Youthful. Great length. This is an abstract wine that sets a new benchmark for Napa Valley reds. Truly unique. Drink after 2027.
100 Points Decanter
Tasted with winemaker Cory Empting and director of winegrowing Bob Levy at Harlan Estate. Fresh and approachable, with the elegance and structural integrity to last four or five decades, possibly longer. On the nose, beautiful upfront savouriness reveals cassis notes, cigar box and black olive followed by ripe, fresh black and blue fruit. Mesmerizing depth of flavours, with beautiful creamy black and red berries and a deep vein of earthy minerality. Tannins are angular with impressive grip, while acids are firm and refreshing. The finish is offers nuanced black currants, dark chocolate, enticing tobacco and cedar.