Harlan Estate Napa Valley 2011

Category:
 
Red Wines
Sub-Category:  
 
Red Wines
Producer:
 
Harlan Estate
Label Name:
 
Napa Valley
Vintage:
 
2011
Country:
 
United States
Region:
 
Napa Valley (Oakville)
Volume:
 
750ml
ABV:
 
14.5%
Grape(s):
 
Cabernet Sauvignon blend (Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot)
Acidity:
 
4
Tannins:
 
5
Sweetness:
 
1
Body:
 
4
Length:
 
5
Aroma Intensity:
 
5
Best Temperature:
 
16-18°C

Awards/Ratings
James Suckling 97; Decanter 97; Vinous 95–97 (commonly cited 96); Robert Parker's Wine Advocate 93; Wine Spectator 93; Drinking window often cited c. 2021–2041

Tasting Note
Perfumed blackcurrant and plum with violets, rosemary and graphite; savory tobacco, camphor and forest-floor notes follow. Full, concentrated palate with chewy tannins, dark fruit, mineral drive and a long, brooding finish.

Food Pairing
Western: grilled ribeye, roast lamb, aged cheddar, braised short ribs; Asian: Korean BBQ (galbi/bulgogi), Peking duck, Szechuan-style beef or soy‑braised short ribs.

Production Method
Hand‑harvested fruit, small‑lot fermentations with extended maceration; matured ~18–24 months in new and used French oak barrels, then blended and bottled (minimal filtration).

Vineyard Info
Founded by Bill Harlan in 1984 on oak‑studded western hills of Oakville. Estate (~240 acres, ~40 planted) produces a cult Cabernet‑based flagship and second wine The Maiden; known for low yields, dry‑farming and meticulous vineyard work.