Tasting Notes
Vinous 97
((500) Full medium ruby. Subdued but pure and vibrant nose offers black raspberry, minerals, licorice and truffle, all lifted by an ineffable perfume that carries through on the palate. Boasts terrific definition and energy; following the group of Bond offerings from ’06, this tasted like a wine from another vintage. Very intensely flavored but wonderfully refined wine, with a light touch to its slowly mounting, highly complex flavors of dark fruits, spices, minerals, tobacco and spices. A wine of great finesse, finishing with superb tannins and outstanding lift. This wine has been a knockout from the outset.
Robert Parker 94
Tasted at Hermitage Wines’ seminar in Hong Kong. Let me cut to the chase: I think this is an excellent Harlan, perhaps one of the best I have tried. The nose has supreme purity with seductive scents of freshly picked blueberry mingling with black cherries and crushed stone, yet there is a countervailing sense of restraint and even Old World a oeclassicisma with underlying tertiary notes. The palate is well balanced with firm tannins: a less opulent Harlan compared to other vintages but with ample freshness and vitality on the finish to make this a very satisfying wine. Drink now, but will age will aplomb. Tasted November 2011.
JancisRobinson.com 18.5
Lot 18. Deep crimson with a pale rim. Rich but not sweet nose with lots of hedgerow notes. Cool palate entry and just as much class as any bordeaux 2006. Harlan has done it! Much more svelte than some early vintages. Layers of spice and balsam. Super-fresh and persistent finish. I rather regret starting my tasting with this wine! Tannins well in retreat but will hold up the fruit nicely for a long time to come. They demand food!
Anticipated maturity: 2021-2036
