Harlan Estate 2009

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.

Saturated ruby to the rim. Outstanding floral lift to the aromas of cassis, licorice, menthol and pungent minerality. Very pure, primary and high-pitched, but already boasts an extraordinarily fine-grained texture, reflecting both the vintage and the site. Most impressive today on the palate-saturating finish, which features wonderfully silky tannins and great mounting persistence.

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. To be released spring 2013. Best from 2014 through 2026. 1,900 cases made.