2018 Arietta "H Block - Hudson Vineyard" Napa Valley Bordeaux Blend

“The 2018 Red Blend H Block Hudson Vineyard is composed of 56% Cabernet Franc and 44% Merlot. Deep garnet-purple colored, it leaps from the glass with gregarious scents of kirsch, black raspberries, wild blueberries and red roses with hints of pencil shavings, garrigue and forest floor. Medium to full-bodied, the palate delivers intense black and red fruit layers, framed by firm, ripe tannins and lovely freshness, finishing long and perfumed. (LPB)” (11/2020)

“The 2018 Red Blend H Block is a blend of 56% Cabernet Franc and 44% Merlot, co-fermented. Like all of the wines from Hudson, the H Block possesses striking aromatic complexity to match its mid-weight personality. Dried cherry, herbs, iron, tobacco and smoke are some of the many aromas and flavors that grace this wonderfully expressive red wine. Bright acids and clean, minerally notes frame this exquisite red from Arietta. (AG)” (12/2020)

“This is such a spectacular showcase of 56% Cabernet Franc and 44% Merlot, both from Hudson Vineyards in Carneros. Spicy in nutmeg and clove, with red and black currant layered throughout, it finishes on accents of cedar, violet and crushed rock. (VB)” (12/2020)

“A wine that needs a few years of bottle age, the 2018 Red Wine H Block Hudson Vineyards checks in as 56% Cabernet Franc and 44% Merlot and offers a relatively reserved yet potential-laced bouquet of red and black fruits, chocolate, toasted spices, and dried tobacco. These carry to a full-bodied, concentrated, textured wine with plenty of tannins, rock-solid overall balance, and a great finish. It opens up with time in the glass, but the smart money is on hiding bottles for 2-4 years, and it should evolve for 15 years thereafter. 94+” (01/2021)

“Solid, with a gutsy edge to the mix of juicy black currant and blackberry compote flavors, inlaid with charcoal, bay leaf and tobacco accents. Dark but racy through the finish, revealing a smoldering hint. (JM, Web-2019)” (08/2022)