California

Rating

98+

Release Price

$250 - 300

Drink Date

2017 - 2047

Reviewed by

Robert M. Parker, Jr.

Issue Date

30th Jun 2012

Source

201, The Wine Advocate

The 2002 Vecina comes from a vineyard not far from the steep hillsides of Harlan Estate, on the western hills of the Mayacamas Mountains overlooking the Oakville corridor and the eastern hillsides. This is a much earthier, spicier, more structured wine, much more masculine, with notes of scorched earth and almost Graves-like smoky, camphor and barbecue notes as well as black fruits galore. With its big, muscular structure and dense opaque/purple color, this wine actually seems younger in its evolution than either the St. Eden or Melbury. It is probably best forgotten for another 5-6 years, with another 30-34 years lifeline potential. It’s a sensational wine. These three Bond wines, the third vintage from entrepreneur and proprietor Bill Harlan, continue to validate his visionary belief in their potential.