1995 Harlan Estate, Harlan Estate, Napa Valley 1x750ml

Robert Parker 88

This has an intense, tightly coiled cassis, black plum and blueberry nose that is pure but virtually impenetrable. The palate has a rigid structure, sturdy and powerful but I am not convinced about the finesse and it lacks freshness on the finish. Monolithic is the word that springs to mind. Not my style. Tasted May 2002. [Neal Martin, 01/05/2002]

Vinous 94+

Full saturated ruby. Knockout superripe nose of black plum, black raspberry, tobacco, minerals, brown spices and hot stones; distinct notes of torrefaction. Very dense and deep, with powerful backbone and great length on the palate. Like a great claret, the wine flavors go far beyond mere fruit. This is remarkably ripe for a California cab-based wine from this vintage, but has the spine for long development in bottle. [Stephen Tanzer, 05/01/1999]