Distinctive soil and notably cooler temperatures than those found in adjacent vineyards best define the growing conditions for this Knights Valley Cabernet Sauvignon. We planted our Helena Dakota Vineyard on the foothills of Mount St. Helena which rises more than 4,000 feet above sea level. This distinctive, two-peaked mountain remains the heart of an ancient volcanic zone responsible for the complex, mineral-rich soils of Knights Valley and nearby grape-growing districts.

This 12.4 acre vineyard runs southeast to northwest on the eastern side of scenic Highway 128 and possesses slopes of up to 15 degrees. Prevailing westerly winds pass over a large, cold pond and blow uphill, parallel to the rows of vines. These cooling breezes slow down the ripening of the grapes and result in wines that are packed with elegance, complexity and finesse. A pure mountain stream and rocky ridge separate this vineyard from our Helena Montana vineyard.

Silt-loam soil that is reddish brown in color prevails in the Helena Dakota Vineyard. Although the soil is rocky in some places, overall it is softer than the soil our neighboring Helena Montana Vineyard. The softer soil allows vines to establish deeper root systems and grow larger vines. Without fail, the fruit each vintage possesses mineral qualities characteristic of this unique combination of soil and temperature.

The flavor profile is of complex red fruits, floral, coffee, minerality, and elegant tannins, aging potential is 20+ years.