2021 Dana Estates Helms Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon

*Blend: 100% Cabernet Sauvignon

*Vintage production: 312 cases

*The 2021 Helms Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon expresses its personality through refined aromatics paired with creamy full-bodied tannins.

Surrounding the winery in western Rutherford, this gently sloping site is relatively cool, and is protected from the intensity of the late afternoon heat during the height of the growing season. The gravelly loam soils provide excellent drainage and wonderful fruit purity. Helms Vineyard Cabernet displays the classic profile of the Rutherford Bench: dark fruit, richly layered with a touch of spice and earth. The finely grained ‘dusty’ tannins so prevalent in the appellation are integrated and harmonious, producing a wine of sophistication and depth.

The team began picking grapes on September 9th with the block on cooler clay rich soils. With more access to water in this dry year this block ripened faster than in years with more spring rain. The next pick was on September 15th on the classic loam soils of Rutherford which are deep and well drained. The grape berries were exceedingly small, with moderately thick skins, and bright acidity. Despite the small thick skinned berries extraction of colour, tannin and flavour occurred earlier than normal during fermentation. The vintage shows great concentration, fresh fruit character, and depth of flavour.

The vintage produced aromas of violets, red currant, dark chocolate, and black cherry supported by mineral, spice, and mountain sage notes. The palate is energetic and precise. The red currant fruit and acidity complement a persistent mouth filling finish. The wine captures the vintage’s character with its elegant texture and intense flavours that envelop the palate. This wine is beautiful now but will reward ageing.