The Dana Estate Cabernet Sauvignon Lotus Vineyard 2011 is an exquisite wine from Napa Valley’s Rutherford appellation, crafted by a winery known for its small-lot, terroir-driven Cabernets. This vintage, from a cooler year, displays a deep ruby hue and a refined bouquet of blackberry, cassis, and graphite, with hints of spice, earth, and violets adding complexity. On the palate, it is elegant and structured, with firm tannins and vibrant acidity supporting flavors of dark fruit, mocha, and subtle oak. The wine’s balance reflects Dana Estate’s meticulous vineyard management, with grapes sourced from the Lotus Vineyard’s unique terroir. Hand-harvested and aged in French oak, the 2011 Lotus offers a seamless integration of fruit and terroir, culminating in a long, mineral-driven finish. Perfect for pairing with grilled steak or a rich vegetarian dish, this Cabernet is approachable now but will evolve beautifully over the next 15 years. Its elegance and depth make it a Napa Valley treasure.