2019 The Mascot, Napa Valley, Cabernet Sauvignon

Tasting note

Bright crimson with some evolution at the rim. Actually there is quite a bit of interest on the nose here. This has lift as well as Napa lusciousness and good structure, balance and length. Throbs with life on the long finish. Quite impressive! And broachable.

Our thoughts

Harlan Estate has, over the last three decades, established itself as one of Napa’s true A-listers, expanding its holdings from the original, eponymous property to two other brands – Promontory, next door, and BOND, a collection of stellar sites across the valley. With such growth has come the need to constantly replenish and replant vines across each site, and for years the first years’ fruit from these young vines was blended into a house wine reserved for friends and family. Now the wine is made in sufficient qualities (around 500 cases, of which we have secured 200 bottles) to merit a commercial release, with its creators keen for the wine to be on retail shelves rather than broking lists. Wine Director Peter Mitchell MW compares its quality and style to that of a Bordeaux super-second.