Wine & Beer

Item Description

The origins of the Arietta Quartet were wines under the label "Arietta Claret" made in 2004 and 2005 from Bordeaux varietals grown at the top of Howell Mountain by noted viticulturist David Abreu. In 2006 we changed the name of the wine to Arietta Quartet, allying the four Bordeaux varietals in the wine (everything except Malbec) to the musical subtext of the brand. Since 2007 we have created Arietta Quartet from first class blocks of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, and Petit Verdot sourced from several of the finest growers in Napa. Most lots are kept separate for the first fifteen months after harvest, at which time blending commences in earnest, the wine continually "tweaked" over a five month period thereafter.  Quartet varietals by David Abreu in 2003, became the new core of the Arietta Quartet. 

This lot is for one magnum of the 2007 Quartet. A review of this wine is as follows, "Good deep red. Aromas of black fruits, dark chocolate and licorice. Sweet, lush and generous, with complex and enticing flavors of black raspberry, chocolate and roasted herbs. This is deeper than the 2006 and finishes with noble tannins and impressive lingering sweetness. Winemaker Erickson describes 2007 as "more classically ripe and balanced than 2006. It has all the elements, with big ripeness."

Arietta's label features the manuscript of Beethoven's Arietta movement from his last Piano Sonata, Opus 111, composed long after Beethoven had lost his hearing. Opus 111 is one of the most emotional and revolutionary pieces of music ever composed: serene yet complex, rich yet ethereal, it provides an inspirational model for great winemaking.

Arietta is owned by Fritz and Caren Hatton. Fritz Hatton has over three decades of experience in the fine and rare wine business and in addition to being a vintner is the nation's foremost wine auctioneer. He serves as principal auctioneer for Zachys Wine Auctions, and as auctioneer for many charities nationwide, including the Napa Valley Wine Auction, United Way, Make-A-Wish, and Sonoma County Children's Charities.

Andy Erickson, Arietta's winemaker, is one of the most accomplished winemakers of his generation. After working at wineries in Napa and South America, he earned his Master's Degree in Viticulture and Enology from the University of California at Davis in 2000. Prior to joining Arietta in 2005, Erickson worked for Harlan Estate as assistant winemaker, and for Staglin as winemaker. Erickson’s first project for Arietta was the development of its first ever white wine, Arietta "On The White Keys." Erickson assumed complete control of winemaking at Arietta with the 2006 vintage. Erickson also makes wine for Screaming Eagle, Dalla Valle, and Favia.

Item Special Note

Item is located in Napa, California. Local pick up or winning bidder is responsible for shipping charges. Bidder to ensure that wine from California may be shipped to his/her state or country.