Anakota Cabernet Sauvignon ‘Helena Dakota Vineyard’ 2017

Introduction

The 2017 growing season was defined by plentiful rain in the winter followed by mild conditions in spring and summer. To preserve the natural acidity in the grapes, picking began early on September 12th in the Dakota vineyard. The wines were resting in barrel prior to the Sonoma County Tubbs fire in October, therefore remained unaffected by any smoke taint. The 2017 Helena Dakota expresses perfumed aromatics of violet blossom and blackberry liquor with subtle notes of menthol and dried black currants. The luxurious, silky palate is accompanied by hints of toasted baking spices and tobacco leaf. Each element is beautifully integrated and complimented with velvety tannins and vibrant acidity, for which drive its satisfyingly long finish.

97 Points – James Suckling This is stunning on the nose with crushed cassis, like creme de cassis, and violets. So beautiful to smell. Medium to full body. Compact, refined tannins flow across the palate to the borders of the wine. All about balance, freshness and purity. One of the best ever. Drink or hold.

96 Points – Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate The 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Helena Dakota Vineyard, bottled six months ago, is very deep purple-black in color. Red roses waft sensuously, provocatively out of the glass, taking center stage until the notes of kirsch, blackberries and black raspberries come through, followed by Ceylon tea and forest floor. The palate is medium-bodied, very freshly perfumed and drop-dead gorgeous in the mouth, with a firm, grainy frame and long, mineral-laced finish.