Arietta, Napa Valley, Hudson Vineyard, H Block, Red 2001
Description
A blend of 40% Cabernet Franc and 60% Merlot, this was produced by co-owners John Kongsgaard and Fritz Hatton. It was sourced from the Hudson Vineyard, also well-known for Syrah and Pinot Noir. The Merlot and Cab Franc are grown on the highest terrain.
94 points Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar
Deep ruby-red. Aromas of plum, currant, black raspberry, cedar, graphite and licorice; as Cheval-Blanc like on the nose as any wine in the range. Then vinous and claret-like on the palate, showing less obvious sweetness than the 2002 but terrific grip. Not at all a plush style but superb structure and a firm spine of acidity give it great penetration. This very tight wine still needs at least a few years of patience and should prove to be among the longest-lived vintages of this bottling to date. (ST) 94+ (6/2011)