The 2017 Harlan Estate The Maiden is a deep, super-expressive wine, showcasing a richness that surprised many given the vintage's generally lighter profile. This second wine from the prestigious Harlan Estate is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc, among others. It offers dark plum, boysenberry, and blackberry compote notes, harmoniously balanced with violet, warm earth, and singed alder. You'll also find hints of red currant jelly, warm plums, blackberry pie, rose oil, Chinese five spice, and fragrant earth. The palate is medium-bodied, elegantly styled, refreshing, and plush, delivering perfumed black fruits with a long, fragrant finish. It presents an elegant texture with present tannins, suggesting it will evolve gracefully for two decades or more. 【A top-notch 2017 that will evolve gracefully for two decades or more.】 🍴 Food Pairing: This savory-oriented wine pairs beautifully with classic meat dishes such as veal, pork, beef, lamb, duck, and game, whether roasted, braised, or grilled. It also complements hearty fish courses like tuna, mushrooms, pasta, and various Asian dishes. 🥂 Event Suggestion: The 2017 The Maiden is a wine that is ready to be enjoyed now, yet possesses the structure to age. It's perfect for a sophisticated dinner party or a special celebration where a wine of pedigree and evolving complexity is desired. Decanting for 3-4 hours is recommended for younger vintages to allow it to soften and open its perfume.