2015 Cabernet Sauvignon Lotus Vineyard

My most recent visit to Dana Estates was truly memorable, as every wine I tasted with winemaker Chris Cooney, consulting winemaker Philippe Melka and President Jae Chun was striking. A total obsession with detail is evident with everything at Dana. The 2016s, some of which have already been bottled, are just as superb today as they have been in the past. The 2017s, on th other hand, emerge from a vintage that saw a whopping 30 days where temperatures rose above 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Among other things, the heat blocked physiological ripeness in some areas to the point that the 2017s offer an unusual combination of ripe flavors, high acid, a good deal of tannin and low sugars.

Consistency is the first thing that comes to mind when I think of these wines from Dana Estates. Winemaker Chris Cooney and consulting winemaker Philippe Melka do a tremendous job of capturing the personality of the three estate vineyards in each and every vintage. Moreover, Cooney and Melka appear to have really dialed in these wines over the last few years. The Dana Cabernets are rich, but they are also deeply expressive of site, and full of character.

My most recent tasting at Dana provided a good look at the last three vintages. The 2015s are opulent, flamboyant wines, and that is on top of a house style that seeks richness and intensity. Macerations were the longest ever, but winemakers Chris Cooney and Philippe Melka kept the temperatures low in order to avoid extracting harsh tannins. It will be interesting to see how those wines develop over the next few years. Dana's 2014s are just as impressive as they have been, while the last of the bottled 2013s capture the intensity and structure of that year. Cooney and Melka continue to refine the approach at Dana, where no expense is spared. The most recent development is an increased move towards dry farming where possible. These are some of the most unique and compelling wines in Napa Valley. Sadly, quantities remain tiny.