This is the first selection I've had the pleasure of tasting from Arns Winery and I will say without a doubt that they have spoiled me. Sandi Belcher, winemaker for Arns Winery, had a challenging year as did most in California for this vintage. But persistence pays off and it has paid off in a BIG way with this 100% varietal 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon! Bright garnet in the glass and solid to the rim, this wine is not a big fruit bomb and certainly doesn't present itself like a wine of this age. This gorgeous Cabernet is more reminiscent of an old world Bordeaux style, with muted fruit being replaced by rose petals, barn wood, ripening vegetables and shoe leather. Instantly, you are transported to a place that is surrounded by people who don't just pop and pour, but truly savor wines that are complex like this with chocolate bits, braised beef, crushed black cherries and again with that beautiful, old world style barn wood and damp earth. The finish isn't exceptionally long, but it is satisfying and you'll be going back for seconds and thirds of this wine. The tannins are small and juicy and this wine is absolutely perfect for drinking right now. I anticipate that it will continue to age gracefully for another 10 years. After this, I am super excited to taste the 2012 and 2013 vintages soon!
ABV: 14.0%
Napa Valley, California
Suggested retail price: $85.00
Drink The Bottles score: 95/100
