I was able to taste through two bottles of the 1999 Harrison Hill, and both were utterly profound. Reminding me of a great vintage of Chateau Margaux with its layers of sandalwood, tobacco leaf, crème de cassis, cedar and spice, this beauty is full-bodied, concentrated and rich on the palate, with tons of texture, awesome purity and a great finish. A classic, even and moderate year that had perfect weather through harvest (yields were tiny in 1999 due to poor weather at springtime), this beauty is drinking perfectly today, but it has another 10-15 years of longevity.

The dark berry and herb-scented 1999 Harrison Hill is an elegant, juicy, spicy wine. Medium-bodied, it reveals gorgeous depth to its satin-textured, cherry, cassis, and spice-flavored character. Fresh herbs can be discerned in this wine's silky, expressive finish. It should be drunk over the next 10 years. Tel. (425)-489-0544

The 1999 Harrison Hill Vineyard's medium to dark ruby color is followed by aromas of blackberry syrup. On the palate, leather, Asian spices, and copious quantities of cherries and blueberries can be found intermingled with prodigiously ripened tannin. Medium to full-bodied and lush, with an impressively long, pure finish, it will be its peak between 2004-2012. Tel. (425) 489-0544

This single vineyard blend includes 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot and 10% Cab Franc. It is a distinctive wine, salty, linear and slightly metallic in its terroir. The vineyard’s cool site, gives the wine lovely extra dimensions, though this is not a style one would describe as fat. Still a bit unresolved at this point in time, it’s a more subtle, soil-driven effort than big brother Chaleur Estate. ——P.G.(6/1/2002)—— 90