HarlanEstate Red 2018

For this newest vintage, winemaker Cory Empting explained that pruning began in late January 2018 and was finished by early March. They chose to prune conservatively, leaving fewer buds per vine than the previous year. The growing season commenced with budbreak in the first week of April. Although rainfall was slightly below average, the timing of the rain was perfect. They received nearly half of the total year’s rainfall in March, April, and May, which helped the vines grow at their potential throughout the spring. What followed was one of the most temperate and idyllic growing seasons in recent memory. And as they entered fall, the forecast predicted moderate temperatures with morning fog and no chance of rain. Customarily, these types of conditions could result in delaying the onset of harvest. As they tasted the grapes in September, however, there was an indescribable confidence that the vines were ready to be harvested, and the in-gathering proceeded purposefully from that point on. “The aromas are decidedly young and vibrant, yet the ubiquitous forest floor elements––normally veiled––are illuminated in vivid detail. There is an innate grace as the wine follows the natural contours of the palate like the slopes upon which the vines reside. Deep and layered, there is resilient energy and strength present. In the finish, more refined details emerge around its confident structure. The tannins have a delicate, engraved quality, each facet demonstrating a fine filigree of tannins in layered sequence. The 2018 is almost celebratory. It speaks of a certain harmony of nature and the unbroken chain of those who have tended to this place over time.” -Cory Empting. 

Founded in 1984, Harlan Estate consists of 240 acres set above the fabled Oakville benchlands with the property rising in elevation from 225 to 1225 feet above sea level. Forty acres are under vine, planted to 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot, 8% Cabernet Franc and 2% Petit Verdot. The first commercial vintage was 1990 and was released in 1996.