2010 Dana Estates Cabernet Sauvignon Lotus Vineyard

(100 Points)

The 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Lotus Vineyard takes over all the senses, starting with the most extraordinary of aromatics. White truffle, mint, bitter chocolate and cloves melt into a rich, layered core of blue and black fruit. Hints of tar, smoke, mocha and grilled herbs develop later, adding further complexity and nuance. Layers of fruit continue to build to a head-spinning crescendo of aromas and flavors. I can’t say enough about the job the entire team at Dana Estates has done with this utterly magnificent Cabernet Sauvignon. The Lotus was fermented in a combination of 45% oak uprights, 45% cement and 10% barrique. It spent 26 months in 100% new French oak barrels. Anticipated maturity: 2020-2030.

(Not yet released)

It’s hard to know where to start with these magnificent wines from Dana Estates. The 2010s are epic, while the 2011s continue to show all the promise I sensed when I first tasted the wines this spring. The 2010s were brought in between October 6-20, while the 2011 harvest didn’t even start until October 22, only to finish on November 3! Napa Valley has attracted a lot of wealthy, big-time investors over the years, but few, if any, have managed to accomplish as much as Hi Sang Lee and his team have in such a short period of time. Readers who want to learn more about Dana Estates might enjoy taking a look at my video interview with winemaker Cameron Vawter.  Wine Advocate #204, Dec 2012