2011 Old World Winery Arbourious Reserve
Russian River, Sonoma, California
 
WB Rating: 80

 
Alcohol by volume: 13.3%
Price at time of purchase: $55.00 (from winery)
 
Type: Rhone-style Red
Principal varietal(s): Arbouriou

I've tasted this wine at least four times now over the past couple of years, and I have to say I find it very hard to describe accurately. Completely different from the powerhouse 2009 in virtually all respects - considerably less fruit and weight than that vintage, about 2% less alcohol, and overall a much less conventional profile. Light ruby red in color, tart and somewhat abrupt in texture, it displays an ever changing melange of flavors - fruits ranging from strawberry to plum to cherry (kirsch?), a funky and almost leafy or woody or vegetal core, mineral notes of wet stones, and occasionally a blast of floral spice. I have a feeling some tasters may love this wine. But for me, while interesting and challenging to the taste, it's just too far from my comfort zone. - HK 2015-05-30

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