Love at first sip. That’s how I felt as soon as I tried these two new wines this weekend. Do you guys know what I’m talking about? That moment the wine touches your lips – you swish it around, swallow it down and then nod your head up and down before you can form the words to say, “oh yeah.” Us wine lovers live for this moment – the moment you find a new love affair. So what are my two new obsessions? Say hello to Jack Winery and Arnyca Cellars.
I had the pleasure of being introduced to these wines from my friend Steve who helps manage, operate and promote both brands. So Steve, a big thank you!!
Tasting Merlot grapes straight from the vine, with help from Steve.
Ok, let’s get into delicious deets on these wines.
Jack Winery – For the Wine and Baseball Lover Alike
As you can tell by the bottle, Jack Winery was created by Major League Baseball Players, Chris Iannetta and Vernon Wells. The name Jack came from combining the first initial of each of their children. Now I don’t know much about baseball, so to be honest, that’s not what turns me on – what does, is the quality and perfection of this wine!
Jack Winery Proprietary Red Blend is the perfect anytime, any meal wine.
I tried the Sauvignon Blanc, Proprietary Red and Cabernet Sauvignon. All three were great. Solid juice that can have a spot at my dinner table anytime. My favorite was the Cabernet, as this thing packed a punch. Big, bold and full of body and attitude, this wine encompassed everything you want in a Napa Cab. I extra love that the grapes are from Diamond Mountain, as I’ve got a soft spot for mountain wines.
Next up…
Arnyca Wines – Cabernet Franc Lovers, Get Excited
Started by two friends, one who’s from Argentinca (AR), and another from New York (NY), aka my friend Steve who I mentioned above, who make wine in California (CA) – they named the brand Arnyca. The label is very unique and features hands signing Arnyca as a tribute to Steve’s parents, who are both deaf.
This makes my heart flutter. Oh, Cab Franc how I love you.
Second great thing – THEY HAVE A CABERNET FRANC. If you know me, you know I absolutely love Cab Franc and get really excited when I get to try a new one. Now, making a good Cab Franc is quite the challenge, as this grape can be a finicky one. Arnyca did not disappoint. This Howell Mountain wine is bold, rich and has a lot to offer – you know you’ve got something in your glass. Hell yeah, that’s what I’m talking about. Crushed dark fruit with long velvety tannins will make you want more and more and more….let’s just say it’s dangerous.
Straight from the vine. Wine not?
The case production on both Jack Winery and Arnyca is extremely small – that’s part of what makes them so special! They can’t be purchased in store, and there’s no public tasting room so I suggest ordering online or sending Steve a note through their websites. Remember, sometimes the best wines are those that are hard to find. 😉 Happy searching.
Cheers to best friends who join you on your wine adventures.
P.S. A big thank you to my bestie for being my photographer for the day and visiting me and partaking in my wine adventures – love you Kirst!
