Dana Estates
Classification
Dana Estates is not formally part of any Bordeaux classifications as it is a California Cult wine. However, its caliber often invites comparisons with the great Bordeaux Grand Cru estates like Château Lafite Rothschild, Château Latour, and Château Mouton Rothschild.
Highlights
- Vintages with 100-point scores: 2007, 2010, 2013
- Most popular for its remarkable balance of intensity and elegance
- Highest achievement: Acclaimed by connoisseurs as a benchmark for California Cabernet Sauvignon
Provenance & Masters Behind the Bottle
Owned by Hi Sang Lee, a South Korean entrepreneur who has a history of reviving estates to produce top-notch wines, Dana Estates stands as a testament to the marriage of tradition and modernity. Winemaker Philippe Melka, with credentials from Bordeaux to Napa, employs both classic and cutting-edge techniques to achieve a wine of unparalleled quality.
Vineyard & Craftsmanship
Located in the esteemed Helms Vineyard in Rutherford, the estate covers just 6 acres, highlighting its exclusivity. The vineyard's unique terroir, which combines volcanic and clay loam soils, is impeccably matched with Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Petit Verdot grapes to create a wine of staggering complexity and nuance.
Aging & Investment Value
Dana Estates wines are known to age gracefully, often reaching peak maturity at 10 to 15 years, making them a prime choice for long-term investment. The winery's limited production adds to the scarcity factor, pushing the demand and value further for collectors.
