Will any of you on the Board be commemorating Independence Day on the Board today, at least those who normally do so? I will and will be drinking some big Napa cabs: a 2009 Hillside Select and a 2001 Harlan Estate with steak and fries.
This is an extraordinary time and many feel little reason to celebrate. I love this country so I will celebrate this evening even though we are in such a funk. I acknowledge that we have an ongoing history of sins and transgression that should not be defended. But I also recognize the good things in our history as well. I pray we find a way to unify, show kindness for one another especially to those in deep need, and show each other some patience and grace.
EDITED - Tasting notes added:
2001 Harlan Estate: Decanted for two-plus hours; dark, dark red with a nose of plum and coffee; taste added red berries, and some chocolate, so the overall flavor was more of a cherry mocha. A lot of fruit but not heavy-handed. Became more integrated and balanced in the glass. Some minerals in the superb finish. For me, Claret-like.
2009 Shafer Estate - Decanted for three hours; nose of lovely, deep purple color, blackberry, and raspberry. Taste added some vanilla, and a bit of herbs, finish was a little disjointed. The parts were good; the whole was less than the parts. This was a good bottle but did not compare well to the Harlan.
We finished the Harlan and saved the remainder of the Shafer for tomorrow. The Harlan started and finished in a terrific spot; delicious.