2017 Dana Estates Cabernet Sauvignon Hershey Vineyard Napa Valley

WA97+: Hershey vineyard on Howell Mountain is 26 acres in total, 18 of which were planted in 2008. It is planted to just about all aspects imaginable, so it’s quite a varied site, although the Dana Hershey label comes mainly from just four blocks. The 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Hershey Vineyard has a deep garnet-purple color and gives up gorgeous scents of candied violets, fragrant soil, Chinese five spice and clove oil with a core of plum preserves, Morello cherries and crème de cassis plus a waft of cast-iron pan. Full-bodied, the voluptuously fruity palate delivers layer upon layer of black fruits and exotic spice, framed by firm, rugged mountain tannins and bold freshness, finishing long and earthy. 145 cases were made. There was no Hershey vineyard in 2018. Drink Date 2022 – 2046
JS96 Rich, yet wonderfully complex and subtle on the nose with aromas of pine needles, chocolate, blackberries and brambleberries that follow through to a medium to full body and firm, chewy tannins. Yet, it’s polished and attractive. Needs time to soften. Better after 2023. Only five barrels made.
VIN94-97 The 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon Hershey Vineyard is shaping up to be truly magnificent. The heat of the year gave the Hershey an extra kick of volume and resonance that comes through in its compelling richness and layers of depth. Inky red/purplish berry fruit, rose petal, dark chocolate, lavender, spice, gravel and mint add layers of aromatic nuance, but more than anything else, the 2017 beautifully captures the natural radiance of the year. Time in the glass brings out tons of Howell Mountain structure and backbone.
Estate Notes: The 2017 Hershey shows a slightly darker fruit profile that is indicative of the vintage. However, the minerality and vibrant acidity that defines this mountain vineyard still dominates. Aromas of black plum and cherry, bitter chocolate, wet stone are abundant. As the wine opens there are notes of espresso, nutmeg, tar, and mountain sage which weave their way into the fabric of the wine. Fine grained mountain tannins frame a creamy entry onto the palate. The wine builds with flavors of plums, black cherry, and bitter chocolate that meld with hints of sage, forest floor and an intriguing salinity. While the wine is enticing now, it will age gracefully through 2035. 135 cases produced.