Product Overview
Winemaker's Notes:
"Our goal in producing Arietta Cabernet Sauvignon has always been to make a wine of balance and persistence, mindful of the styles and traditions of Great Growth Bordeaux. Coming on the heels of a prolonged multi-year drought, the 2016 growing season was defined by near-ideal conditions. In most vintages including 2016 we source Arietta's Cabernet Sauvignon entirely from our 1.7 acre block of Clone 337 Cabernet in the Meteor Vineyard, in the heart of the Coombsville appellation just east of the city of Napa. The lower than average Napa temperatures, moderately sloping southwest exposure, and well drained soils allow for a longer ripening season, and flavor intensity at lower sugars."
Varietal Composition: 97% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Petite Verdot
Production: 109 cases
96+ Points - Wine Advocate
"Containing a 3% splash of Petit Verdot, the deep purple-black colored 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon comes bounding out of the glass with boisterous cassis, black cherries and blueberry compote notes plus suggestions of Chinese five spice and chocolate mint. Concentrated, full-bodied, bold and sexy in the mouth, the palate explodes with minted black berry layers framed by ripe, grainy tannins and finishing very long." -LPB, 10/29/18
96 Points - Vinous
"The 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon is a total pleasure bomb. Rich and opulent in the glass, with plush fruit and silky tannins, the 2016 is very easy to taste, even at this early stage. Raspberry jam, mocha, plum, cinnamon and new leather are some of the many notes that build as this racy, voluptuous Cabernet Sauvignon shows off its soft curves and inviting personality. This is an especially savory style, and yet the 2016 has terrific fruit density and textural resonance." -AG, Sep/2018
94 Points, "Cellar Selection" - Wine Enthusiast
"Sourced predominantly from the Coombsville appellation, this is a stunning, beautifully aromatic wine made with 3% Petit Verdot. Winemaker Andy Erickson coaxes clove, red currant and a bite of acidity from soft, seamlessly rounded layers of classic structure and grace. Earthy tones of gravel and dried herb provide contrast to the powerful fruit. Enjoy best from 2026–2030." -VB, 12/1/19
92 Points - Wine Spectator
"This sports a mix of sage, menthol and tobacco leaf notes out front, followed quickly by a solid core of polished currant, blackberry and fig paste flavors. The fruit and herb elements mesh nicely through the rich finish. Best from 2021 through 2030. 101 cases made." -JM, 6/30/19
