Since the day we opened our doors just over a decade ago we have championed the work of Duncan Arnot Meyers and Nathan Lee Roberts. They offered a vital lifeline to those who crave the tension and elegance of European bottles but felt alienated by the massive overripe style that once defined California wine. Along with a few fellow trailblazers they sparked a revolution by looking toward the old world as a muse rather than a template to copy. By reclaiming the historical restraint of the 1970s California pioneers they have secured their position as the benchmark for quality in modern American wine.
While they are globally renowned for producing some of California’s most heralded Pinot Noirs Chardonnays and Cabernets, the two wines we have on offer today represent the very heart of their adventurous spirit. Those classic bottlings may be the darlings of sommeliers and Michelin restaurants from San Francisco to Paris but for us the Trousseau and Gamay remain a consistent favorite even though they are among their most humbly priced wine. By balancing the heritage of European masters with the raw potential of California soil Duncan and Nathan have created a style that feels entirely contemporary yet deeply rooted in tradition.
The 2024 Trousseau is the latest chapter in a story that began with a gamble on an obscure Jura grape. This vintage is a blend from the volcanic cobble of the Luchsinger vineyard and the weathered sandstone of Las Cimas creating a wine that is strikingly transparent and nimble. By opting for one hundred percent whole cluster fermentation they have coaxed out an incredible aromatic lift of sweet red cherry and orange peel. It is a bottle of immense purity that completely rejects the idea of heavy California reds prioritizing energy and a focused mineral structure that allows the fruit to feel weightless on the palate.
When you consider the level of agricultural precision involved, the 2024 Gamay Noir from El Dorado is perhaps the most impressive value in the entire lineup. Sourced from high elevation vineyards in the Sierra Foothills these vines are farmed with organic methods in decomposed granitic soils that demand constant attention. The winemaking is equally meticulous using native yeasts and partial carbonic maceration in neutral French oak to preserve every ounce of mountain freshness. This vintage is a tad richer than previous years while remaining exceptionally vibrant with layers of crushed flowers, red fruit and mint that punch well above their weight.
These 2024 releases are essential for anyone who wants to see exactly where the future of Northern California wine is headed. We are offering these new arrivals at a discount but given the short vintage and high demand for these amongst our customers, they will move quickly. It is a pleasure to see two humble winemakers stay true to their roots while shining a new light on their home state. Grab your bottles today before this allocation is gone for good.
Arnot-Roberts North Coast Trousseau 2024 - $39.99
Arnot-Roberts El Dorado Gamay Noir 2024 - $29.99
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