Harbison Pony Express Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon 2018
Napa Valley Red Wine | 14.1–14.8% ABV | 750mL
Process & Profile
Harbison Pony Express Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon 2018 is a single-block, estate-grown Cab from Oakville crafted under meticulous vineyard and winemaking care. Sourced from Clone 337, the grapes were fermented and aged in new French oak to emphasize structure, purity, and terroir-driven intensity.
This wine exemplifies Oakville's signature combination of power and precision, reflecting the high-caliber craftsmanship of Harbison Estate.
Tasting Notes
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Nose: Layers of ripe blackcurrant, blackberry, violet, cocoa, and subtle tobacco-leaf scent
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Palate: Full-bodied, concentrated dark fruit (blackcurrant, plum), mocha, espresso, and cedar; rich yet refined tannins
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Finish: Long, structured, and mineral-driven with lingering graphite, dark spice, and earthy depth
What Makes It Special
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Estate-grown from the Pony Express block (Clone 337) in Oakville
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Aged in 100% new French oak, enhancing depth and structure
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Single-vineyard expression with intense concentration and terroir clarity
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Critically acclaimed: 95 pts by James Suckling (Oct 2021), and 96 from Wine‑Searcher
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Built for aging: cellaring potential through 2044, with richness that evolves gracefully
How to Enjoy
Decant for 60–90 minutes and serve at 60–65 °F in a large Bordeaux glass. Pair with grilled ribeye, venison, roasted lamb, or aged cheddar for a powerful, elegant match.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is this a single-vineyard wine?
Yes, made entirely from Harbison’s Pony Express block in Oakville.
2. What’s the alcohol and aging potential?
Alcohol ranges between 14.1–14.8% ABV; cellar-friendly through 2035–2044, with current readiness
3. How does it compare to Horseshoe block?
Pony Express is richer and more structured, showcasing darker fruit and mocha × graphite tones compared to Horseshoe’s elegant profile.
4. Which clones are used here?
Crafted from Clone 337, noted for depth and purity in Oakville terroir.
5. What are the key flavour elements?
Expect layered dark fruit, espresso, graphite, cedar spice, and refined, grippy tannins.
