Arnot Roberts Clajeux Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2023 (750ML)

Since 2003, Duncan Arnot Meyers and Nathan Lee Roberts have farmed the same 14 rows of Clone 7 Cabernet Sauvignon at Clajeux Vineyard, the Chalk Hill hillside Don and Carolyn Vogt planted in 1999, once known as Wild Iris. The certified organic slope runs from 400 to 800 feet in gravelly Felta loam and volcanic soil, cooled by afternoon air off the Russian River Valley. The 2023 growing season ran long and cool, allowing extended hang time. The fruit was fermented with native yeasts and 30% whole clusters, basket-pressed, aged 22 months in French oak and bottled unfined and unfiltered; Roberts makes barrels for the winery himself. Pomegranate and wild blackberry meet lavender, graphite, fresh mint and a wash of flowers, every piece in proportion, with slim, finely grained tannin. Critics place its opening around 2028. Serve it with grilled quail, roast guinea hen or duck confit.