2011 Dana Estates Cabernet Sauvignon Helms Vineyard Rutherford

A pure, aromatic red with currants and berries. Hints of flowers, forest floor and bark. Mushroom. Full body with firm, silky tannins and a juicy finish. Good tension and suppleness. Lovely dusty tannin texture. Drink or hold. Review Date: May 2014

The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Helms Vineyard is super-polished, elegant and finessed. Rose petals, sweet red berries, licorice, mint and cinnamon all take shape in a delineated, vibrant Cabernet Sauvignon. Darker, wilder notes appear with time in the glass, adding an element of exoticism that is hugely appealing. In 2011, the Helms was fermented entirely in barrel rather in oak uprights as is typically the custom as yields were tiny. The 2011 spent 26 months in barrel, 100% new. (AG) Review Date: November 2013