Harlan Estate Harlan Estate 2021

Region and Vineyards

Situated in the western hills of Oakville, Napa Valley, Harlan Estate encompasses approximately 40 acres of vineyards nestled within a 240-acre property. The estate's diverse topography, ranging from 225 to 1,225 feet in elevation, offers a mosaic of microclimates and soil types, including volcanic rock and sedimentary formations. This diversity contributes to the complexity and depth of the wines produced.​

The 2018 growing season was marked by a mild spring and a warm, steady summer, allowing for extended hang time and optimal ripening. These conditions yielded fruit of exceptional quality, characterized by balanced acidity, concentrated flavors, and refined tannins.​

Winemaking

The 2018 Harlan Estate is a blend predominantly composed of Cabernet Sauvignon, complemented by Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot. Fermentation occurs in oak tanks using indigenous yeasts, followed by malolactic fermentation in barrel. The wine is then aged for approximately 24 to 36 months in new French oak barrels, allowing for integration and development of complex aromas and flavors.​

Bottled without fining or filtration, the 2018 vintage embodies the estate's philosophy of minimal intervention, aiming to capture the essence of the vineyard and the character of the vintage.​

Tasting Notes

• Color: Deep garnet-purple with a luminous intensity.​
• Aroma: An intricate bouquet of blackberry compote, cassis, and black cherry interwoven with notes of graphite, violets, and subtle hints of cedar and spice.​
• Palate: Full-bodied and impeccably balanced, the palate reveals layers of dark fruit, espresso, and earthy minerality. Silky tannins and vibrant acidity lead to a persistent, nuanced finish.​

Did you know?

Founded in 1984 by H. William Harlan, Harlan Estate was conceived with the ambition to create a California "First Growth." Over the decades, the estate has garnered acclaim for producing wines that rival the great estates of Bordeaux, solidifying its status as a cult icon in the world of fine wine.​

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Grilled venison with blackberry reduction: The wine's dark fruit profile complements the richness of the game.​
• Herb-crusted lamb rack: Earthy undertones and refined tannins harmonize with the savory flavors.​
• Wild mushroom risotto: The wine's complexity enhances the umami depth of the dish.​
• Aged Comté or Gouda cheese: Robust flavors align with the wine's intensity and structure.

History of Harlan Estate

Founded in 1984 by H. William Harlan, a visionary entrepreneur with a deep love for great wines, Harlan Estate was conceived with the ambition of creating a “First Growth of California.” Harlan's journey began in the late 1970s, when he acquired a rugged, forested property in the western hills of Oakville, a site he believed could yield wines to rival the best of Bordeaux. Over time, he meticulously cleared and planted 40 hectares of vineyards on the estate’s 240-hectare property.

Harlan's mission was not merely to make wine, but to craft a legacy. In collaboration with acclaimed winemaker Bob Levy and enologist Michel Rolland, he sought to create wines of structure, depth, and extraordinary finesse. The first commercial vintage was released in 1990, and in a few short years, Harlan Estate quickly rose to prominence.

Critical acclaim followed, with Robert Parker awarding multiple 100-point scores, and Wine Spectator hailing it as one of the top estates in America. Today, the estate remains family-owned and operated, with Will Harlan, Bill’s son, gradually stepping into leadership and ensuring the continuity of its uncompromising standards.

Region and Vineyards

The Harlan Estate vineyards are situated on a southwestern-facing hillside above the Oakville benchland, in the heart of Napa Valley. Ranging in elevation from 68 to 374 meters, the site includes diverse soil types—volcanic, sedimentary, and clay—spread across steep slopes, plateaus, and terraces. The complex topography and mosaic of microclimates contribute to the wine’s layered structure and remarkable depth.

The vineyards are densely planted and organically farmed, with an emphasis on sustainability and detailed parcel management. The low yields and precise viticultural practices result in fruit of extraordinary concentration and balance. Cabernet Sauvignon dominates the plantings, alongside smaller parcels of Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot, all of which are blended to compose the flagship wine.

Wine Range of Harlan Estate

Harlan Estate produces a single, flagship wine—a red blend that typically contains around 85–90% Cabernet Sauvignon, completed by Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot. It is aged for 24 to 36 months in 100% new French oak and bottled unfined and unfiltered.

In addition to the estate wine, the Harlan family also owns Bond, a separate winery dedicated to single-vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon expressions, and Promontory, another estate located on the southwestern edge of Oakville with a distinct geological profile.

Did you know?

Harlan Estate is one of the most collectible wines in the world, often compared to the First Growths of Bordeaux. It is allocated through a private mailing list and consistently ranks among the highest-priced and most sought-after Californian wines at auction.