93 points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
The seasons were ideal—no spring frosts
evolved mouthfeel and sweet tannins
black currant and violet pastille complicated by a hint of olive paste
voluptuous offering is both exuberant and dramatic on the palate
Arietta, Napa Valley, Variation One, Red 2002 Bordeaux Blanc 93 points Robert Parker's Wine95 points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate The stunning 2002 Variation One (70% Merlot and 30% Syrah) exhibits an exotic, opulent personality with a deep purple color, and sweet aromas of cocoa, new saddle leather, black raspberries, cassis, and acacia flowers. Full bodied, with beautifully integrated oak (all of these wines are aged in 100% new French wood), wonderful sweetness, tremendous delineation, and laser like clarity and transparency of