Arns Estate Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley 2011

When people think of Napa Valley, some may visualize the big-name wineries that dot the bucolic scenery as they drive up 29’s two-lane road.  Many visitors to the valley might not know that there are secret gems tucked behind the flanking mountain ranges in hidden valleys, down winding dirt roads, for almost no one to see. Living here, we know all the nooks and crannies, and each micro-brand is discreetly situated on the most magical parcels of land.  We believe our clients enjoy our healthy obsession with discovering unknown brands because it helps them find their favorites in the early stages of development before they are exposed to the masses. We had the pleasure of reconnecting with one such brand last week through serendipity. This gem happens to be one of the first micro-brands ACME ever discovered - and it is still a best-kept secret from most of the world.  It’s called Arns, and it is cunningly concealed due in part to its ardent fans’ sealed lips. Located in a secluded section just beneath the Howell Mountain line, next door to Herb Lamb Vineyard and Ecotone Vineyard (formerly Abreu Thorevilos, where Accendo, Impensata, and Vice Versa source fruit), Arns is a limited-production, Cab-lover’s TREASURE.  Grievously, this area was ravaged by the 2020 fires. Some homes, wineries, and vineyards were lost, but when neighbors come together, anything is possible. Their network of supporters, people who love them and believe in the high-quality wines from those celebrated, not forgotten but indubitably missed vineyards, have stepped up to help them rebuild. Fortunately, the wines that survived were stored offsite in a wine warehouse, as is typical.  Therefore, we still have access to these cherished, now even more so, prized possessions. Jeff & Karen Fontanella are hosting their barrels; David Abreu is replanting the ranch, and ACME’s support of Arns going back decades will be crystal clear once you try them. They are ink black, gorgeous, Napa Valley Cabernets, artfully made – but only in small quantities.  The style is consistent, changing only with each vintage's subtle nuances.  With two years+ in French oak barrels from a mélange of 5 different coopers, they are bottled and aged for another 2+ years for a total of 5 years before they are released.  The signature aromas are indeed tantalizing: chocolate, fresh mint, dried spices, black cherries, mulberries, and a hint of earthen bria