The 2019 Dana Estates Helms Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon from Napa's Rutherford appellation is a distinguished wine that has garnered high praise from several esteemed reviewers. This wine, produced by Dana Estates, is composed entirely of Cabernet Sauvignon and boasts an alcohol content of 14.8%. The wine has a deep garnet-purple color and is sealed with a cork closure.
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate rated this wine between 97 and 99 points, describing it as "exploding with bombastic scents of crushed blackberries, plum preserves and crème de cassis followed by nuances of red roses, black tea, eucalyptus oil and dusty soil." The review highlights its "juicy black fruits, supported by ripe, soft tannins and lovely freshness," and notes that 402 cases are projected to be produced.
James Suckling awarded the wine a score of 97 points, noting its "aromas of red currants, crushed stone, bark and some red licorice" with "creamy and medium-round tannins." He also points out the wine's "hints of chocolate, walnut and stone" and describes its tannins as "fine-grained and silky." Suckling recommends trying this wine after 2026.
Antonio Galloni of Vinous gave the 2019 Helms Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon a score of 98 points, praising its "classy, elegant and polished" profile. He appreciates the wine's "bright acids and beams of supporting tannin," and mentions its "dark red/purplish fruit, lavender, spice, dried herbs, mint and a hint of rose petal." Galloni emphasizes the wine's "aromatic brilliance" and "mid-weight Cabernet that is more finesse than power."
Jeb Dunnuck also rated the wine at 97 points, describing it as "medium to full-bodied, complex, incredibly satisfying" with "cassis and plum fruits, ripe, integrated tannins, and wonderful purity of fruit." He notes "lifted, exotic notes of candied violets, tobacco, and spice," and suggests that while it's drinking nicely today, it should have two decades of longevity.
Wine Spectator offered a slightly lower score of 93 points, yet still praised the wine's "ripe and with good buried energy" character. The review mentions a "brambly hint runs underneath the core of raspberry and red currant reduction" and describes it as "sleek, with savory, violet and licorice notes adding fuel to the finish." They recommend enjoying this wine between 2024 and 2038.
In summary, the 2019 Dana Estates Helms Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon is a highly acclaimed wine that excels in complexity, elegance, and aromatic brilliance, promising a rewarding drinking experience both now and in the decades to come.