Arnot-Roberts California Red Wine 2021

Arnot-Roberts is the California partnership of Duncan Arnot Meyers and Nathan Lee Roberts, based on the Sonoma Coast and known for a fresh, lower-alcohol style that runs against the grain of riper California reds. This organically farmed wine is a Bordeaux-style blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Merlot at a modest 12.5 percent, picked early to hold acidity and freshness. The cool, fog-influenced Sonoma Coast climate is central to the restrained style, slowing ripening so the grapes keep their bright red fruit and herbal lift rather than turning jammy. The wine ages ten months split between stainless steel tanks and barrel, so the steel preserves primary fruit and freshness while the oak portion adds a light texture and savoury depth through gentle oxygen exchange, without dominating. The colour is bright, medium ruby. The nose is vibrant cherry and raspberry with red currant, a leafy Cabernet Franc herbal note and a touch of pepper. The palate is medium-bodied and fresh, the tannins fine, the acidity bright, the finish clean and savoury. Serve at 16 degrees in a Bordeaux glass. A versatile, food-friendly red for roast meats and mushrooms.