2017 Arietta Cabernet Sauvignon Napa

Arietta Cabernet Sauvignon was first produced in the 2003 vintage. Since 2007 the core of the wine has been a 1.6 acre block of Cabernet Sauvignon in Coombsville, a small vale just east of the town of Napa. Lying in the shadow of Mt. Saint George, the vineyards undulate downwards toward the town of Napa. Planted by viticulturist Mike Wolf in 1995 and still under his management, the vineyard incorporating the Arietta Cabernet Sauvignon block is recognized as one of the finest, if not the finest site for this varietal in Coombsville. The soil is primarily volcanic, and the Arietta block has a southwestern exposure which is the most favored in this relatively cool climate. The grapes require longer than typical hang time (often until mid-October), and develop great depth of flavor without exceeding 25.5 brix. For additional layering and complexity we blend into the Arietta Cabernet Sauvignon small amounts of Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, or Merlot, depending on the character of the vintage. Arietta Cabernet Sauvignon is raised in 75-80% new French oak for twenty months before bottling the second July after harvest.