- CRITICAL REVIEWS
- WINEMAKER NOTES
Robert Parker Wine Advocate
Vinous
1995 Harlan Estate, Napa Valley, USA
The 1995 Harlan Estate from Napa Valley is a highly revered vintage, known for its powerful structure, elegance, and aging potential. This wine is regarded as one of the finest expressions of California Cabernet, blending intensity with finesse.
An extremely wet winter, with 25 days of rain in January, followed by 18.5 inches in March. Late March budbreak, and bloom on May 31. Persistent rainfall caused considerable shatter in the clusters. Summer temperatures served up “ripening weather” and produced a phenolically mature crop. Harvest began on September 5 and ended on the 26, yielding 2.0 tons per acre.
TASTING NOTES
Very dark, deep-ruby color. Aromatics include coffee bean, toasty smoky notes, and vanilla, black and blue fruits, earth, mineral notes, herbs, dried sage, and green olive, showing nuanced bottle bouquet. The mouth entry is full and fleshy, with spectacular purity through the midpalate; layers of ripe fruit flavors, black olive, and spice. Elegant and long. Very showy and hedonistic when first released, the voluptuousness and lush fruit of its youth has retreated sufficiently to reveal a complex expression of the site-distinctive, earthy character. Drinkability: now to 20+ years.
Aromas of black currants, plum, and subtle notes of tobacco and earth. On the palate, it reveals layers of dark berries, cedar, and spice, with a long, velvety finish supported by well-integrated tannins.
Winemaking & Vineyard Details
Aged for 24 months in 100% new French oak, this wine is sourced from the meticulously farmed **Harlan Estate Vineyard** in Napa Valley, where exceptional terroir allows the fruit to reach its full potential.
Investment & Collectibility
The 1995 Harlan Estate is a legendary cult wine with significant investment potential, known for its limited production and remarkable aging ability. It remains one of the most sought-after Napa Valley Cabernets for collectors.
Vintage Specifics & Accolades
The **1995 vintage** in Napa Valley saw ideal growing conditions, producing wines with great structure and longevity.
- 98 points – Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
- 97 points – Wine Spectator