Tasting Notes:
98 points Wine Advocate
Another rating identical to that which was given in 2007 (when first tasted from bottle), the 2004 Harlan Estate is performing essentially the way I suggested in 2007 as it is one of the more precocious and accessible of the Harlan Estate wines to date. A great showing at this retrospective, this wine, which seems like a hypothetical blend of a Pauillac, St.-Estephe and Graves, represents around 1,500 cases from 40 acres of beautifully manicured hillside vineyards overlooking Oakville. Still dense purple to the rim, with notes of creme de cassis, charcoal, blackberry and sweet toast, the wine is full-bodied and voluptuously textured with the tannins largely resolved. But the density and richness suggest this wine can go a long, long way, even though the window for drinking it seems open and inviting already. A world-class, first-growth wine if there ever was one from Napa, this is simply an exquisite Harlan Estate that has atypically reached mid to late adolescence at the age of ten. That is great given the fact that these are 30- to 40-year wines – possibly even half-century wines. (RP)
98 points Wine Enthusiast
This is very great Harlan. It pours dark and saturated, and the tannins are big and sturdy, not aggressive, but sweet and finely ground. Still, they give a hardness to the immaculately ripe fruit that mandates cellaring. The flavors of currants, blackberries, plums, chocolate and cedar are lush, deep and long-lasting, but just a part of the balanced appeal of this young wine. It really defines the exquisite tension between power and elegance. *Wine Enthusiast Best of 2007, Cellar Selection*
98 points Wine Spectator
Starts out closed, but very intense and concentrated, with tight currant, spice, cedar, anise and blackberry flavors. Maintains a long, vibrant finish. *Collectible* (JL)
Cult Wines International Notes:
Harlan Estate: A California “First Growth”
Harlan Estate, a Napa Valley icon, is widely regarded as California’s “First Growth,” producing Cabernet Sauvignon that sets the benchmark for quality. Founded by visionary Bill Harlan, who also developed Meadowood and wineries like Bond and Promontory, Harlan Estate embodies meticulous viticulture and uncompromising winemaking. Their 36-acre Oakville vineyard, with its steep slopes and diverse blocks, yields exceptional fruit.
Harlan’s journey began with a desire to create a world-class estate. After studying Bordeaux and Burgundy, he acquired his Oakville property in 1984. With a focus on quality, the inaugural vintage was released in 1996, crafted by a renowned team including Bob Levy and Michel Rolland.
Harlan Estate wines are known for their elegance, complexity, and remarkable aging potential. Grapes are sourced from the estate vineyard and meticulously selected. Fermentation and aging in new French oak barrels result in wines of exceptional richness and depth.
The Maiden, Harlan Estate’s second wine, offers a taste of the estate’s character at a more approachable price. Crafted with the same attention to detail, it showcases the vineyard’s unique terroir. Critics consistently praise The Maiden for its elegance and complexity.
Harlan Estate stands as a testament to Bill Harlan’s pursuit of excellence. Their wines are highly sought-after by collectors and connoisseurs, representing the pinnacle of Napa Valley viticulture.
Bottle Size:
750 mL
Storage History:
Always stored properly in a climate controlled cellar.
Condition:
Overall outstanding condition.
Please note: The bottle shown in the photos is the exact item you will receive. Photos have been taken from various angles to illustrate the wine’s condition.
