Harlan, The Maiden 2018, 750ml

The 2018 The Maiden by Harlan Estate is a stunning articulation of the Oakville, Napa Valley terroir, showcasing the energy and precision that defined this benchmark vintage. Often outperforming the flagship bottlings of its peers, this release offers a vibrant core of baked black cherries, warm cassis, and chocolate mint, underpinned by a distinct note of crushed rock that speaks to its hillside origins. Rated 97 points by Jeb Dunnuck, it delivers a full-bodied experience where "bold freshness" meets a "firm frame of grainy tannins," resulting in a finish that is both powerful and undeniably elegant. To pour this wine is to experience the meticulous craftsmanship of the Harlan team in a vintage that perfectly balances richness with refined structure.

While undeniably approachable now for its lush fruit profile, the wine possesses the energetic backbone to evolve beautifully over the next 15 to 20 years.

* **Producer:** Harlan Estate
* **Region:** Napa Valley, California
* **Varietal:** Bordeaux Blend (Cabernet Sauvignon Dominant)
* **Format:** 750ml
* **Scores:** 97 JD, 95 JS, 95 WS