88-90 pts - Wine Advocate
The medium ruby/purple-colored 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Helms Vineyard was picked between October 28 and November 3 (which gives you an idea of how late, cold and wet this growing season was) and is a shorter, more compact style of wine, no doubt because of the valley floor conditions. An herbal, earthy nose is backed up by some red and black currants as well as a touch of wood. Medium-bodied and smaller sized with less authoritative flavors, it should drink well for 10-12 years. - Robert M. Parker, Jr. (41578)
95 pts - Vinous
The 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon Helms Vineyard is super-polished, elegant and finessed. Rose petals, sweet red berries, licorice, mint and cinnamon all take shape in a delineated, vibrant Cabernet Sauvignon. Darker, wilder notes appear with time in the glass, adding an element of exoticism that is hugely appealing. In 2011, the Helms was fermented entirely in barrel rather in oak uprights as is typically the custom as yields were tiny. The 2011 spent 26 months in barrel, 100% new.-AG