2001 Harlan Estate Proprietary Red

The 2001 Harlan Estate is in a great spot today. Though fully mature, the 2001 retains terrific energy and focus. Bright acids lend surprising vibrancy and energy throughout. Hints of tobacco, cedar, leather and dried herbs add nuance as well as complexity. This is the first vintage made at the current Harlan Estate winery. A spine of tannin supports the long, focused finish. Readers can look forward to another decade of very fine drinking. The 2001 is absolutely gorgeous today. (AG)

Deep medium ruby with no sign of development. Musky aromas of blackberry, blueberry, soy sauce and licorice; almost liqueur-like. Huge, savory and utterly silky on entry, then plush and superconcentrated in the middle palate, boasting blackberry, licorice and mineral flavors of incredible intensity and penetrating sweetness. Utterly palate-staining in its breadth. Leaves the palate vibrating with black fruits and licorice pastille. When I originally tasted this wine from barrel, I noted that it was one of the greatest California Cabernets I had tasted to that point. This massive, three-dimensional wine finishes with huge, noble tannins and outstanding rising length. I suspect it's just embarking on its plane of peak drinkability, which might last another two decades. This may be the longest Cabernet of the 2001 vintage.

Magnum. 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, remainder: Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot. The aromatics are subtle and layered, followed by a beautiful, detailed and nuanced palate. The 2001 is a standout vintage with great complexity of lavender and violet, exotic spices, pleasing earth and graphite elements, and a tobacco accent. Tannin is powdery fine while persistent, giving a pleasing mouthfeel that is well balanced with elegant length. This wine is detailed, elegant while also powerful, mouth-watering and delicious. Give this plenty of time and savour it. (ECB)