2008 Arietta "H Block - Hudson Vineyard" Napa Valley Bordeaux Blend

“My favorite wine of this group is the 2008 H Block. It is the first time they have ever made it from 100% Cabernet Franc, and it is a killer wine. Gorgeous notes of blueberry, violets, lead pencil shavings, and pen ink soar from the glass of this full-bodied yet strikingly elegant, floral wine. It is deep blue/purple in color, with a glorious texture, terrific purity, and a long finish. This is further evidence of the brilliance of Cabernet Franc in Napa and of Cabernet Franc paired with the rare talents of Andy Erickson. It should drink well for 10-15 years, possibly two decades. (RP)” (12/2010)

“(14.9% alcohol): Bright, dark ruby to the rim. Sexy aromas of plum, blackberry, blueberry, dark chocolate and espresso accented by pepper and tobacco leaf. Plush, fine-grained and subtly sweet, showing a sexy chocolatey richness to its dark berry and plum flavors. Boasts lovely thickness and soil-driven salinity but also very good energy and lift. Like a Right Bank Bordeaux in style--and a very good one at that. Finishes with rich, suave tannins and subtle building, vibrating persistence. This suave, complex, beautifully balanced Cabernet Franc spreads out subtly to saturate the palate. (ST)” (03/2018)