One of the most extraordinary wines I tasted during my trip through Northern California was Arietta’s 2002 Proprietary Red H Block Hudson Vineyard. Made from equal parts Merlot and Cabernet Franc this dark purple-colored 2002 exhibits wonderfully refined complex notes of scorched earth menthol mocha cherries plums figs and espresso. With great intensity as well as surreal elegance and refinement this beautifully pure effort unfolds on the palate in incremental layers of finesse and flavors. This amazing noble wine is a tour de force in winemaking for California. It should drink well for 15 years.