2013 Arietta Merlot Hudson Vineyard
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Tasting notes
Deep ruby in colour. Sticky concentrated black cherry with a hint of dust and iodine. Sweet, rich fruit with enough acidity to balance. This is quite a bit fresher than the 2019 H Block that I've just tasted. It's in a nice spot but isn't as impressive as the 2021 Merlot. (SCJ)
Critic scores
Average Score
Jancis Robinson MW
Jancis Robinson MW
More reviews and scores
The 2013 Merlot Hudson Vineyards is round, supple and inviting. Like all of the Arietta 2013s, the Merlot is surprisingly approachable, with far less tannin and overall structural heft than it has shown in the past. Dark red cherry, iron, herbs, menthol and licorice give the 2013 its distinctive earthy, savory personality. There is so much to like here.
Ripe blackberry and dripping-ripe plum served in a metal bowl and sprinkled with cocoa, nutmeg and a bit of clove. Tactile tannins and a shantung-silk mouthfeel. Balancing acidity. All chocolate and black pepper with accents of tar through the finish. Dense. (ECB)
The 2013 Merlot Hudson Vineyards emerges from the oldest vines in Lee Hudson's famous Carneros vineyard. Deep, rich and unctuous, yet impeccably balanced throughout, the 2013 is a real head-turner. Layers of fruit open up in a distinctive, Merlot endowed with real depth and personality. The 2013 is even better from bottle than it was from barrel.