Arnot-Roberts is a California winery known for its dedication to minimal intervention winemaking. The winery focuses on cool-climate vineyards, producing wines that showcase the unique characteristics of each single vineyard. Arnot-Roberts is considered by many to have had a significant impact on the California wine scene, moving away from the big, bold wines that were popular at the time and moving towards more restrained, elegant wines.
This article takes a look at the history of Arnot-Roberts, the winery’s winemaking philosophy, some of its key wines, and the impact it has had on the wine industry.
Arnot-Roberts was founded by Duncan Arnot Meyers and Nathan Roberts.
The History and Philosophy of Arnot-Roberts
Arnot-Roberts is a California winery known for its unique approach to winemaking. Here’s a look at how it all started and what makes them tick.
Origins and Founding
Duncan Arnot Meyers and Nathan Roberts crossed paths and bonded over a shared love for winemaking. I don’t have access to details about their education or early experiences, but they clearly shared a vision for creating wines that spoke of the land where they were grown.
That vision led to the founding of Arnot-Roberts. From the start, the goal was to craft wines that truly reflected the character of specific vineyard sites, rather than imposing a particular winemaking style.
Winemaking Philosophy
Arnot-Roberts is all about minimal intervention in the winemaking process. They let the grapes do the talking, using native yeasts for fermentation, incorporating whole grape clusters, and keeping the use of new oak barrels to a minimum.
They also focus on cool-climate vineyards and unique grape varieties, sourcing fruit from places like the Sonoma Coast and Mendocino Coast. This allows them to create wines with a distinct sense of place.
Sustainability and environmental consciousness are also key values for Arnot-Roberts. They’re committed to practices that respect the land and ensure the long-term health of their vineyards.
Key Wines and Varietals
Arnot-Roberts has gained a following for its dedication to showcasing the unique terroir of Northern California through a range of meticulously crafted wines. While they work with several varietals, their Chardonnay and Pinot Noir are particularly noteworthy.
Chardonnay
The Arnot-Roberts Chardonnay program is a testament to their commitment to seeking out exceptional vineyard sites. They source grapes from renowned vineyards like Peter Martin Ray and Clary Ranch, each contributing its own distinct character to the final wine.
Arnot-Roberts Chardonnays are known for their lean, mineral-driven style, emphasizing elegance and age-worthiness over overt fruitiness. Winemaking techniques are carefully considered to preserve the purity of the fruit and the expression of the site.
Imagine a glass of their Clary Ranch Chardonnay: a pale straw color hints at the vibrant acidity within. Aromas of crushed seashells, lemon zest, and a subtle hint of beeswax mingle in the glass. On the palate, the wine is taut and focused, with a lingering mineral finish that speaks to the unique coastal influence of the vineyard.
Pinot Noir
Arnot-Roberts’ Pinot Noir program mirrors their Chardonnay approach, focusing on sourcing from premier vineyards that capture the essence of California Pinot Noir. Vineyards like Hirsch Vineyard and Bohan Vineyard are integral to their Pinot Noir production.
The style of their Pinot Noirs leans towards elegance, earthiness, and complexity. They often employ techniques like whole-cluster fermentation, adding structure and savory notes to the wine.
Consider their Hirsch Vineyard Pinot Noir: a ruby hue shimmers in the glass. The nose is a captivating blend of wild berries, forest floor, and a touch of spice. The palate is silky and refined, with well-integrated tannins and a long, satisfying finish that reveals the depth and complexity of this iconic vineyard.
Other Varietals
Beyond Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, Arnot-Roberts explores a range of other varietals, including Syrah, Gamay, and Trousseau. This reflects their adventurous spirit and their desire to showcase the diversity of California’s terroir.
They seek out vineyards suited to these less common varietals and adapt their winemaking techniques to best express the character of each grape.
Their Gamay, for example, offers a lighter, more playful expression. Imagine bright cherry fruit, a hint of spice, and a refreshing acidity that makes it the perfect accompaniment to a casual meal.
Vineyard Sources and Terroir
Arnot-Roberts wines are known for showcasing the unique characteristics of the vineyards from which they come. They primarily source grapes from two distinct coastal regions in California: Sonoma Coast and Mendocino Coast. Here’s a look at how these regions influence their wines:
Sonoma Coast
The Sonoma Coast is a cool-climate region heavily influenced by the Pacific Ocean. Its proximity to the ocean means frequent fog and cool breezes, making it ideal for varietals like Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Arnot-Roberts works with specific vineyard sites along the Sonoma Coast known for their well-drained soils and exposure to maritime influences.
The terroir of the Sonoma Coast imparts a distinct character to Arnot-Roberts wines. The cool climate leads to wines with bright acidity, vibrant fruit flavors (often red fruit in Pinot Noir), and a noticeable minerality. The coastal influence is often reflected in a subtle salinity or sea breeze note.
Mendocino Coast
Further north, the Mendocino Coast is even more rugged and remote. This region boasts a diverse range of soil types and microclimates. Arnot-Roberts sources grapes from select vineyards in Mendocino known for their unique soil compositions, which can range from sandstone to shale.
The Mendocino Coast terroir brings a different dimension to Arnot-Roberts wines. The wines from this region often exhibit a more savory character, with earthy notes and a distinct structure. The cool climate still ensures bright acidity, but the fruit profile can be slightly darker and more complex compared to the Sonoma Coast.
Other Notable Vineyards
While Sonoma and Mendocino Coast are central to their production, Arnot-Roberts occasionally sources from other vineyards that contribute to the diversity of their portfolio. These might include vineyards with unique soil types (like volcanic soils) or specific microclimates that allow for experimentation with different varietals or winemaking techniques. These carefully selected vineyards allow Arnot-Roberts to push the boundaries and explore the full potential of California’s diverse terroir.
Frequently Asked Questions
What winery does Dave Roberts own?
Dave Roberts doesn’t own a winery outright, but he’s a co-founder and partner in Arnot-Roberts. He’s the “Roberts” half of the name, bringing his deep knowledge of viticulture and winemaking to the operation. He’s not just a figurehead; he’s actively involved in every aspect of the winemaking process.
Who owns Arnot-Roberts?
Arnot-Roberts is owned and operated by Duncan Arnot Meyers and Nathan Lee Roberts, hence the name! They are the two partners who founded the winery. They’ve built Arnot-Roberts from the ground up, focusing on minimal intervention winemaking and sourcing fruit from unique vineyard sites. It’s a true partnership where both contribute their expertise and passion.
Closing Thoughts
Arnot-Roberts has been a true force in the California wine world, helping to define a style of winemaking that’s all about letting the fruit speak for itself. Their commitment to minimal intervention has not only produced some stunning wines but has also influenced countless other wineries and winemakers to embrace a more hands-off approach.
Looking ahead, it’s exciting to imagine what the future holds for Arnot-Roberts. Knowing their dedication to quality and innovation, we can expect them to keep pushing boundaries and exploring new possibilities in the vineyard and the winery. We can also look forward to future releases that showcase California’s incredible terroir.
Ultimately, Arnot-Roberts has made a lasting impact on the California wine scene, and their wines will continue to be enjoyed and appreciated for years to come.