2017 Dana Estates, Lotus Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, Bottle (750ml)

RP98 "Lotus vineyard is just below Howell Mountain, not high enough to make that AVA. A very steep vineyard, 100% hand farmed, Lotus is by far the warmest site for this estate. The 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Lotus Vineyard is made from Cabernet Sauvignon with just a 1% splash of Petit Verdot. Deep garnet-purple in color, it bursts from the glass with vibrant, primary scents of black raspberries, ripe blackberries and wild blueberries with emerging notions of blackcurrant pastilles, lilacs, cinnamon toast and sandalwood. The full-bodied palate is built like a brick house, featuring firm, grainy tannins and tons of freshness supporting the densely packed, muscular black fruits, finishing with epic length and depth. 342 cases were made." LPB for TWA Feb 2021

AG98 "The 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Lotus Vineyard captures all the best this challenging year had to offer. It is also the biggest and richest wine in the range. Black cherry, plum, spice, licorice and blood orange are all amplified in this sumptuous Cabernet Sauvignon. The Lotus shows a bit more new oak toastiness than the other wines in the lineup, but it all works well together. In two previous tastings, the 2017 showed so much promise. Now that it is in bottle, all of the potential has been captured." AG for VM Jan 2021

Lisa Perrotti-Brown for RobertParker.com writes, "I'm continually awed by the level of dedication, attention to detail and no-compromises attitude at Dana Estates. The three recent vintages tasted (2017, 2018 and 2019) show off the very best Napa Valley has to offer in these years. Readers should note that no 2018 Hershey Vineyard—located high-up on Howell Mountain—was produced, due to issues with smoke taint (drift from the Mendocino Complex Fire that year). This financially difficult decision should go a long way toward maintaining the trust of loyal followers of this estate and, indeed, of such conscientious Napa Valley producers. Fortunately, due to its lower elevation and aspect, Lotus Vineyard was not impacted in 2018 and the wine is utterly gorgeous." Published: Feb 26, 2021