100 pts Robert Parker: One of the greatest Cabernet Sauvignon-based wines I have ever tasted. A blend of 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, with the rest Merlot and Cabernet Franc, this enormously-endowed, profoundly rich wine must be tasted to be believed. Opaque purple-colored, it boasts spectacular, soaring aromatics of vanilla, minerals, coffee, blackberries, licorice, and cassis. In the mouth, layer after layer unfold powerfully yet gently. Acidity, tannin, and alcohol are well-balanced by the wine's unreal richness and singular personality…

97 pts Wine Spectator: Powerful expression of Cabernet. Ultraripe and bordering on jammy, with rich currant, chocolate, black cherry and blackberry flavors that pick up a raisiny edge, finishing with broad, rich, thick tannins...

“The 1997 Harlan Estate is one of the greatest Cabernet Sauvignon-based wines I have ever tasted. In the mouth, layer after layer unfold powerfully yet gently. Acidity, tannin, and alcohol are well-balanced by the wine's unreal richness and singular personality. The finish exceeds one minute.” - Review by Robert Parker, Rating: 100