100-Point by Decanter, Jane Anson, James Suckling & Vinous.
Gorgeous blackcurrant bramble fruit tones on the nose. A hint of plum, juniper, allspice, cinnamon, pepper and violets. Stylish and compelling, a real sense of purity from the first mouthful. So carefully controlled and delivered. Tannins are ample but finely textured and well integrated - this really stands out in the tasting and is a step-up in terms of nuance, complexity and character. Tannins coat the mouth in a powdery chalky minerality while the subtle density and quiet muscular power gives the base and focus. Nothing stands out, you know you're in California which is excellent, but it's not overt or too much. Tastes sophisticated, stylish and overall expensive! A thrilling wine that really shines and is all the more likeable because it's not showing off or shouting too loudly. Liquorice and tar end the wine on a savoury note, suggesting long cellaring and long ageing potential. I love it. A class above.
The newest of the Harlan-related projects, Promontory is based on an 840-acre parcel of largely forested hills located south of Harlan Estate. Purchased in 2008, it's virtually a valley unto itself, with fewer than 84 acres under vine. The winery itself is situated just north of Harlan. From a slightly higher elevation and virtually surrounded by nature, the wine is more taut and structured, accentuated by its élevage in Austrian oak foudres from Stockinger, which range from 1000 to 5000 liters in volume.