Tasting notes for the H. Block Hudson Vineyards - Arietta
- EYE: In the glass, this "H. Block" cuvée flaunts a deep ruby color, sign of an intense and refined red wine.
- NOSE: An aromatic whirlwind welcomes us next, with strong notes of ripe red fruits such as cherry and raspberry, complemented by a subtle touch of black pepper and spices. A complex bouquet evoking elegance and depth.
- MOUTH: This Cabernet Franc unveils its full power while maintaining remarkable finesse. Silky tannins support flavors of blackcurrant, blackberry, and vanilla, while well-balanced acidity brings freshness and liveliness to the whole. The persistent finish leaves a delicate imprint on the palate.
In short: Arietta's H. Block Hudson Vineyards cuvée embodies the masterful expression of the Cabernet Franc grape variety, offering a harmonious sensory experience between aromatic intensity and elegant structure. To reveal its full complexity, it is recommended to let this wine age for another 5 to 10 years. Pair this red wine from the Napa Valley, California, with dishes such as roasted duck breast, grilled ribeye, herb-crusted lamb, sautéed porcini mushrooms, or mushroom risotto. Gourmet pairings that will enhance every sip.
Other appellations from this estate: H Block Hudson Vineyards, Variation One, Cabernet Sauvignon, On The White Keys, Quartet, Merlot Hudson Vineyards, On the White Keys "Artists' Reserve", 88 Keys...
W_495
Data sheet
- Vintage
- 2011
- Format
- 75 cl
- Color
- Red Wine
- Grape Variety
- Cabernet Franc, Merlot
- Appellation
- Napa Valley
- Producer
- Arietta
- Origin
- California, United States
- Cuvée
- H. Block
Arietta
Famous wine estate from the Napa Valley
The Arietta Estate is a quite recent creation, as it was founded back in 1996, in the American Napa Valley (to be more specific, it's located in the Los Carneros AVA district). There, John Kongsgaard, his wife Maggy and their business partner Fritz Hatton planted a small vineyard (less than 1 hectare of surface) and built their new wine estate. John was the man behind the Kongsgaard Wine company and Fritz was a famous wine auctioneer (he used to work for Zachys Wine Auctions Inc.) Together, they wanted to create a fine wine, born from their love of classical music. The name of the estate comes from the arietta movement found in Ludwig van Beethoven's legendary "Piano Sonata No. 32" (Opus 111), composed by the German artist after he lost his hearing. You can even find the sheet music on the estate's wine labels.
In 2003, the two partners started producing Cabernet. The following year, their Bordeaux-inspired Claret wine was released, made with 4 red grape varieties: Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Petit Verdot. In 2005, Fritz Hatton bought back all the shares owned by John Kongsgaard and thus became the sole proprietor of the Arietta Estate. After this, the Claret changed its name to "Quartet", as a way to stay close to the musical themes of the estate. The estate now produces 6 cuvées in total: H Block, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Quartet, Variation One (five red wines) and On The Wine Keys (the only white wine made by Arietta since 2005, using a blend of Sauvignon and Sémillion grapes). The couple hired the services of Andy Erickson, a former Harlan Estate employee.
Discover the Arietta wine estate.
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