Shay A

9.4

Steve Distler, owner of Arnyca, is doing consulting for a few small labels out in Napa. As I've posted before, his Arnyca cab franc is my favorite out of Napa Valley. He was the former GM at O'Brien Estate and was able to add them to his portfolio, along with Cobden Wini (winemaker for Arnyca and winemaker at O'Brien), Frias Family and Jack Winery. Killer line-up of small production stuff. We hosted him for a wine dinner and all of it was stellar.

Jack Winery utilizes the talents of Aonair winemaker Grant Long Jr. Jack was started by Vernon Wells (former MLB player) and Chris Ianetta (current MLB player). This '14 cab is from Diamond mountain and drinking well at a young age. Not as monstrous as young Howell Mountain cabs. Red and black fruit dominant with a decent amount of espresso and pepper. Needs to rest for a few years but has very good potential to be extremely good. — 9 years ago

with Steve

Shay A

9.4

Ok. I know this is O'Brien, and they have great wines. This specific cab, along with the rest of the OBrien line up was impressive. But. Winemaker Mark's private label, Cobden Wini, and Steve Distler's label Arnyca, were the standouts. The Cobden Wini late Harvest Sauv Blanc and the Arnyca Cab Franc were some of the best from this trip. Ordered over 2 cases between the 6 of us. The experience at O'Brien was so cool...feel like it was done by guys that I'd like to grab beers with and hangout with on a Tuesday night. If you visit Napa, stop by here! — 9 years ago

Paul H

9.2

Opens with prevalent graphite, licorice and raspberries. On the palate rich plums and red berries mixed with small amounts of licorice currants and graphite to make a well balanced Cab Franc. This is a really good one but still my favorite is ARNYCA. By all means I hope you try this and make your comparisons. — 10 years ago