Lotus vineyard is just below Howell Mountain, not high enough to make that AVA. A very steep vineyard, 100% hand farmed, Lotus is by far the warmest site for this estate. The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Lotus Vineyard is a blend of 93% Cabernet Sauvignon and 7% Petit Verdot, due to be aged for 25 months in French oak barrels, 100% new. Deep garnet-purple colored, it comes galloping out of the glass with powerful scents of blackcurrant cordial, chocolate-covered cherries and boysenberries with hints of licorice, black truffles, red roses and fallen leaves. Medium to full-bodied, taut, firm and and vibrant in the mouth, it has profound earth and savory layers with a long, long mineral layered finish. 338 cases are projected to be made.

Not yet bottled, the 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Lotus Vineyard might just flirt with perfection. It’s another full-bodied, multi-dimensional, layered Cabernet that going to deliver the goods. Textbook cassis and dark cherry fruits, silky tannins, an incredible mid-palate, and thrilling length all define this puppy. Don’t miss it.

The 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Lotus Vineyard is still in barrel, but it appears to have a bit more vibrancy than the Helms or Hershey. Beams of tannin and bright acids lend energy throughout. This elegant, mid-weight Cabernet has plenty to offer, but readers will have to be patient. Dark fruit, gravel, spice and crushed rocks linger.