David Arthur Napa Valley Meritaggio 2003

David Arthur Napa Valley Meritaggio 2003

Dark garnet color - full bodied - bright, virbrant, rich, mouthful of black raspberry, currant, ripe plum, layer of anise and hint of spice with nicely integrated fine tannins. Delicious.

RM 93 points.

Serious wine with fun name - Meritaggio, a play on the word Meritage - a US instantiation of a Bordeaux Blend, this is a rendition of a Sangiovese based Bordeaux style blend, with fruit sourced from Napa Valley. This vastly exceeded expectations with vibrant bright flavored dark and red berry fruits with layers of complementary flavors. Complex and sophisticated but easy drinking wine. 

Tasted w/ L, Mark and Gayle B at Angelis', our favorite Italian tratorria. Also tasted, Marquis Philips '9' South Australia, McLaren Vale.


http://www.cellartracker.com/wine.asp?iWine=85665

David Arthur Napa Valley Atlas Peak Pritchard Hill Cabernet Sauvignon 2003

David Arthur Napa Valley Atlas Peak Pritchard Hill Cabernet Sauvignon 2003

Deep dark garnet color, full bodied - spicy, vibrant forward dark berry throughout, slight earthy layer currants, cola berry, tobacco and hint of cedar. Slight hot alcohol on opening bleeds off after an hour or so. A blend of 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Cabernet Franc, 7% Petite Verdot, and 3% Merlot. From vineyards 1200 feet high in the Vaca Range above the eastern slope of Napa Valley. 

RM 92 points.

http://www.cellartracker.com/wine.asp?iWine=85664

Atlas Peak Pritchard Hill vineyards (left) from our 2009 Napa Valley Wine Experience. Tasted at home w/ L, Sherry ZM and Alex - great complement to grilled tenderloin, sauteed green beans, roasted corn, and finale of dark chocolate cake and fresh berries.