Reviews & Scores
The 2009 Harlan Estate is texturally more accessible than the 2010, and its sweet attack is beguilingly immediate. In its bouquet, notions of ripe red fruits compete with darker blackberry and cassis, while top notes of dried herbs and warm earth contribute complexity, as well as a tell-tale 'sauvage' quality. This is a supple wine that is easier to appreciate in its youth than the 2010, although there is no shortage of tannin behind all that fruit.
DC93November 2017
Stylistically, the 2009 Harlan Estate has quite a bit in common with the 2012, namely soft contours, plush fruit and tons of sheer immediacy. Now with a few years in bottle, the 2009 is just beginning to show the first signs of aromatic development. Deep, creamy and pliant, the 2009 can be enjoyed now, although it is sure to gain complexity over the next two decades. (AG) - VM
VM97September 2017
Offering a Pomerol-like silkiness, this is very rich and layered, with ripe dark berry, roasted plum and cassis flavors. Yet what's striking is the texture, which has the density of the proverbial iron fist in a velvet glove. *Collectibles*
WS96October 2012
Cloves, dark plums, cherries, smoke and graphite add richness and resonance to this powerful, incisive wine. Juicy and exuberant, the 2009 has always had a certain raciness that is impossible to resist. Layers of fruit continue to build to the enveloping, sensual finish. Readers will have a hard time keeping their hands off this hugely delicious wine. - WA
WA97