The Mascot Napa Valley 2015

Region and Vineyards

The Mascot is made from Cabernet Sauvignon sourced from younger vines across Napa Valley’s esteemed hillside estates, including BOND, Harlan Estate, and Promontory. Situated in Napa’s western hills, these vineyards benefit from the region’s warm Mediterranean climate, with hot days and cool nights that support the full maturation of Cabernet Sauvignon grapes. The vineyards’ high elevation and rocky soils create ideal conditions for producing bold, structured wines with rich tannins and depth.

Each estate contributes a unique element to the Mascot: BOND for power and concentration, Harlan Estate for elegance and finesse, and Promontory for structure and minerality. The vines used for The Mascot capture the vibrancy of these younger plots, providing a fresh perspective on the terroir while hinting at the evolution of the more established vines over time.

Winemaking

The 2015 vintage of The Mascot underwent a meticulous selection process, with the young-vine lots evaluated between 6 and 14 months after fermentation. Only the best lots are chosen to ensure quality and consistency. The wine then aged for nearly three years in a mix of French and Austrian oak barrels, with both new and neutral oak used to balance structure and allow the fruit to shine. After bottling, the wine was cellared for an additional 18 months, resulting in a Cabernet that balances freshness with the complexity of Napa Valley’s hillside terroir.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Deep ruby with purple highlights.
• Aroma: Intense aromas of blackberry, black tea, and earthy herbal notes with a subtle floral lift.
• Palate: Layers of dark fruit, such as black cherry and plum, combine with powdery tannins and hints of spice. The mid-palate shows density, while the finish reveals bright acidity, minerality, and an intriguing persistence.

Did you know?

The Mascot project began as a small, personal venture for the Harlan family and their close friends. Initially, the wine was never meant for commercial release but was so well-received that they decided to share it with a wider audience, showcasing the character of younger vines from these iconic estates.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Grilled Ribeye Steak: The tannic structure and dark fruit complement the richness of a ribeye.
• Wild Mushroom Risotto: Earthy mushroom flavors pair beautifully with the wine’s herbal and dark fruit notes.
• Roasted Lamb with Rosemary: The wine’s structure and acidity balance the savory, herbaceous quality of lamb.
• Aged Cheddar or Gouda: These cheeses’ nutty, complex flavors enhance the wine’s depth and tannin.

History of The Mascot

The Mascot began as an informal family project spearheaded by Will Harlan, blending the youthful fruit of the family’s esteemed vineyards. Initially unnamed and unlabeled, the wine was shared among family, friends, and the winemaking team. Its charm and enthusiastic reception led to its official launch as a standalone label, offering a glimpse into the character of the parent estates.

The name “The Mascot” was inspired by the family’s affection for canines, with the label featuring a historical engraving of Prince, a white English bull terrier once associated with a Pittsburgh bank and local sports teams. This story symbolizes loyalty, perseverance, and approachability—values that resonate with the spirit of the wine.

Region and Vineyards

The vineyards contributing to The Mascot are located in the rugged hillsides of Oakville, Rutherford, and neighboring areas of Napa Valley. These sites, identified by the Harlan family over the last 40 years, represent some of the most exceptional terroirs in the region.

The vines used for The Mascot are 5 to 12 years old, sourced from blocks undergoing replanting cycles at Harlan Estate, BOND, and Promontory. These younger vines provide vibrant and energetic fruit while reflecting the rich legacy of their mature counterparts. The farming methods prioritize dry farming and sustainable practices, ensuring the vineyard ecosystem thrives while promoting the purity and depth of the wines.

Winemaking

The winemaking process for The Mascot emphasizes the youthful vigor of its components while honoring the refined techniques of its parent properties. The wine is predominantly Cabernet Sauvignon (85–95%), with smaller quantities of Cabernet Franc, Merlot, and Petit Verdot.

Each component is vinified separately, and after a meticulous evaluation at the blending table, the finest lots are selected. The wine is aged for nearly three years in a combination of new and neutral French oak barrels and Austrian casks, followed by an additional 18 months in bottle before release. This extensive aging process ensures a balance between approachability and structure, making The Mascot enjoyable both young and after extended cellaring.

Did You Know?

The engraving on the label of The Mascot features Prince, a white English bull terrier who served as a mascot for both a bank and various Pittsburgh sports teams in the early 20th century. His story reflects the wine’s approachable yet distinguished character.

Wine Range of The Mascot

The Mascot Cabernet Sauvignon: The sole wine of this project, it serves as a window into the evolution of the Harlan family’s grand estates, offering a youthful expression of their potential.