Wine Spectator: Harlan Estate Owner Launches New Members-Only Napa Venture

- Napa Valley Reserve will allow wine lovers to participate in wine production at their own private "club." - Daniel Sogg Dec 2003

"Entrepreneur Bill Harlan is lifting the curtain on an ambitious new project unlike anything yet attempted in Napa Valley. Called Napa Valley Reserve, the concept will allow members to participate hands-on in every phase of wine production, from viticulture to packaging."

"Under the supervision of Harlan Estate winemaker Bob Levy, a fulltime winemaker will direct the operation. The heart of the idea is to supply the satisfactions of wine production without the expense, risk or responsibility of actual winery or vineyard ownership."

What is The Napa Valley Reserve?

"The Napa Valley Reserve vineyards are overseen by the Harlan family viticultural team. These talented artisans have a keen understanding of the seasons of a vineyard and a mastery of the art of hand-crafting wines using time-honored traditions in balance with new practices and techniques." - The Napa Valley Reserve

The Napa Valley Reserve: a winery, social club, and academy rolled all into one. Founded by Bill Harlan, TNVR is a members-only, private club that offers wine aficionados the opportunity to become winemakers, vineyard managers, and estate owners for a one-time price of $165,000. While many from the outside view the reserve as a highly secretive project, those on the inside see the reserve as a club to live out winemaking fantasies.

Each member is allotted their own row of grapes signed with a plaque at the end of the row. From there, they can tend to the vines, help in the harvest, observe and participate in cellar management, and choose their own blends for the finalized bottling. With half a barrel to three barrels for each member, the wines offer a rare insight into the world of Napa's Valley upper echelon. Additional amenities include cooking classes from world-class chefs, gala dinners, and much more! Which wine enthusiast wouldn't want a taste of the TNVR world?

There are no professional tasting notes or ratings available for this exclusive Member Only wine, however, clients have compared it to the Bond Pluribus. Note: not compared to the 2nd Wine of Harlan, The Maiden, or the third wine of Harlan, The Mascot, but compared to a Harlan Project, BOND! For reference, BOND Pluribus 2010, 2009 & 2008 have been rated RP97, RP97 & RP95 Respectively.