Ark Vineyard 2009 75cl

The 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon Ark Vineyard emerges from a parcel of old, volcanic soils that inform the wine to a significant degree. A vivid kaleidoscope of iron, ash, tar, smoke, crushed rocks and dark red berries take shape as this fabulous, pedigreed wine shows off its considerable personality. A cool, inward wine, the Ark is all about minerality and pure tension as a backdrop for the characteristic Hundred Acre fruit. A huge, mineral-soaked finish rounds things out in style. The 2009 is the rare Hundred Acre wine that is not likely to offer immediate pleasure. It will more than make up for that in the future. I can’t wait to see how this explosive, beguiling Cabernet develops over the next few years. Anticipated maturity: 2017-2029.  Jayson Woodbridge is one of the most focused and determined people I have ever met in the Napa Valley, or anywhere, for that matter. A man of deeply held convictions, Woodbridge knows exactly what he wants to achieve and won’t let anyone get in the way. His inner drive and passion are both remarkable. I suppose surviving cancer at the age of 18 will do that to you. Hundred Acre fans will find much to admire in this set of new releases. The Hundred Acre Cabernet Sauvignons remain some of the most distinctive wines being made in Napa Valley today.

This elegant style displays backbone and vibrancy, offering fresh, ripe, generous black cherry and blackberry fruit, with silky tannins. Drink now through 2026. 900 cases made.  –JL