Harlan Estate, Napa Valley Red Wine 2007

The following tasting note shows the combined comments of the tasting panel organised for Club Oenologique at Harlan Estate on 11 March 2020. Present: Adam Lechmere, Bill Harlan, Will Harlan, estate directer Don Weaver, collector Jim Walker, Harlan educator Kelli White, director of winegrowing Bob Levy, Jamie Ritchie of Sotheby’s fine wine, Elaine Chukan Brown (notes can be found on jancisrobinson.com), winemaker Cory Empting, associate director François Vignaud

Bordeaux blend of average 75% Cabernet Sauvignon plus varying proportions of Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot.

Adam Lechmere – Such a charming nose, floral perfume – rose water– luscious sweet fruit, bramble, blackberry more than blueberry, some mint and graphite. Delicious. Tannins incredibly soft and fine-grained, acidity fresh and sweet

Bob Levy – notes of herbs, cedar & tobacco leaf, forest floor, rich concentrated note of cassis; very dense & full/round entry; broad, juicy, rich middle

Cory Empting – slightly oxidized but lots of complexity; there is a depth and a richness, tons of hedonistic layers; too heavy; super rich & hedonistic

Don Weaver – expressive nose, chocolate, road tar, espresso, CS varietal character; lush, round entry but very energetic, tannins firm but fine, built to last; power with grace, savory & sweet; a classic, one of the “pillars” of HW

François Vignaud – licorice, spiced fruits, touch of fig jam, earthy tones; broad, sweet, savory; rounded palate supported by medium acidity; energetic

Bill Harlan – pleasant, forward, good weight & balance; medium weight, round & full finish

Jamie Ritchie – Licorice, herbs, minerals and spice. Creamy red and black cherries, blackberries. Luscious and inviting, like a stewed black fruit pie. On the palate, freshness combined with luscious, juicy fruit and a thick texture that coats the mouth. Very ripe, sweet fruit that maintains a savory character and freshness. Almost over the top, but not quite being there. Opulent, spicy coffee, chocolate, tea, tar finish, with acidity and tannin still present. Ready to drink from now and excellent.

Jim Walker –  lengthy, heady, silky; classic black fruits, maybe a hint of chocolate/cocoa; this one holds on forever, very silky

Kelli White –  a mighty, aromatic nose showing some development; scents of dried red currents, sandalwood, dried blood, dried herbs & papaya; very savory and mouth-watering on the palate; has good tension and a soft but trim mid-palate; long rusty, dusty finish; still plenty of fruit sweetness

Will Harlan – nose has warmth but not thickness; dried oak leaves, warm spice, somewhat evolved; retains transparency, red fruits