Arrowood 2002 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon is an outstanding California Cabernet from start to finish. In 2002, when the harvested grapes went through the press, Richard Arrowood noted the juice's intense black fruit flavors and "unbelievable" aromatics and colors. He foresaw a blockbuster year for this fabulous vintage and he was right on the money.

The majority of fruit for the 2002 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon was grown on hillside vineyards in the Sonoma Valley; a region known to yield some of the most concentrated and balanced Cabernet Sauvignon in Sonoma County. After aging lots separately in seasoned French oak barrels and a small amount of American oak barrels for 23 months, only the finest was selected to blend and return to French oak barrels for another five months of aging.

The resultant wine is a perfect vision of violet with purple hues and tones of brick-red around the edges. It shows certain richness and there is no shortage of complexity. Rich aromatics of black cherry, cassis and leather introduce the palate to a symphony of flavor profiles with black fruit in the forefront of undertones and overtones of plump, ripe fruit in this full bodied wine. The tannins are in harmony, bringing structure and balance with a long, lovely finish. This wine should evolve and age with grace throughout at least the next two decades.

Arrowood 2002 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon is a true pleasure to enjoy on its own, and pairs well with many different foods. Serve it with grilled meats or seafood, or favorite pasta topped with a rich, bold red sauce.