The Mascot
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The Mascot, part of Domain HWH, is a Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon made from distinct hillside vineyards, specifically, the younger vines of Harlan Estate, BOND, and Promontory.
The Cellar Mouse Team had the privilege of attending the event, Dawn Patrol, hosted by the legendary Bill Harlan, Founder of Domain HWH, and Mollie Maisch, Director of The Mascot. It was set against the backdrop of a serene landscape, as if the vines themselves were waking up to tell their stories.
It was an intimate event that included an early morning vineyard walk during golden hour with breathtaking views of the Napa Valley. Guests then gathered for specially prepared bites by celebrated chef Kevin O'Connor paired with The Mascot's exclusive library vintages.
The event began at dawn with the early morning light warming up the fog covered Napa Valley. As we gathered, the sense of exclusivity and connection to the land was palpable.
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The Mascot was founded by Will Harlan, son of Bill Harlan. What started as a personal passion to share wine crafted from the younger vines of Harlan Estate, BOND, and Promontory with close friends and family has since grown into something much larger.
During the event, Bill Harlan spoke about his vision for building a multi-generational legacy. As he shared his thoughts, it became clear how deeply he values stewardship and the responsibility of preserving Napa’s natural beauty for future generations.
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After the discussion, we immersed ourselves in a tasting of The Mascot's 2019 and 2020 vintages, expertly led by Mollie Maisch. The 2019 vintage offered dark fruit notes with a hint of spice and balanced tannins. In contrast, the 2020 vintage, a vibrant and youthful wine, revealed layers of red fruit and subtle earthiness. Both wines showcased the meticulous craftsmanship and dedication that define The Mascot’s winemaking process. While sipping on The Mascot's fine wines, guests indulged in delicious breakfast bites prepared by Chef Kevin O'Connor. Chef specializes in open fire cooking and also happens to be an olive oil sommelier.
For those seeking an intimate, immersive, and educational Napa Valley experience, The Mascot’s Dawn Patrol is truly unparalleled. It’s not just about the wine—it’s about understanding the story behind the bottle, the land that nurtures it, and the people who craft it.
Join the newsletter list for the next Dawn Patrol. If you would like to experience The Mascot firsthand, sign up for the allocation here.