2000 Harlan Estate Napa Valley Bordeaux Blend

“A stupendous wine that epitomizes the Harlan style of grace and power. Shows how the most elaborate vineyard and winery practices can contribute to a near-perfect wine, even in a less heralded vintage. The flavors cascade in endless tiers, black currant, cherry, mocha, Indian pudding, oak and spice, all coming together in a minute-long finish. Magnificent. *Cellar Selection*” (11/2004)

“The 2000 Harlan Estate, a wine uncannily reminiscent of a 1990 Médoc, is at what seems to be a peak - or a plateau - of maturity. A projected bouquet includes notes of ripe plums, black cherry, wood smoke and cigar box. On the palate the tannins have begun to melt, making for a wine of immense drinkability and seductiveness. A Harlan Estate with a Bordelais sensibility. (WK)” (11/2017)

“The 2000 Harlan Estate is in a beautiful place today. Soft, open-knit and nicely mellowed by age, the 2000 is absolutely gorgeous, with soft contours to match is engaging personality. Mocha, black cherries, leather and spice are all quite forward in this succulent Harlan Estate. (AG)” (08/2015)

“Tight, concentrated and compact, showing dried currant, berry and mineral character, with tannins that frame the flavors. Ends with a black cherry and blackberry fruitiness. This was a cool, drawn-out year. (JL)” (11/2010)

“There is a delicious and ample presence here but it is more low-key and less chiselled than the 2001. The 2000 is elegant while almost meditative. It requires a little more attention on the part of the drinker. It was challenged in this vertical line-up by sitting between the impressive character of the 2001 and the assertiveness of the 1999. Between those two wines it could be easily overlooked but the 2000 is a lovely vintage with a good marriage of tannin and acid to flavour and very good length. Gunmetal and graphite are evident throughout. This would do nicely with a steak. No need of extra dressing. 18/20 points (ECB)” (03/2020)