Arrow & Branch 'Right Bank' Red Blend 2022

Winemaking

Arrow & Branch approaches winemaking with a focus on Bordeaux-inspired blends that honor the classic proportions and elegance of Right Bank Bordeaux, particularly the style of Pomerol and Saint-Émilion. The winery prioritizes the expression of Merlot as the foundation, allowing the varietal's natural richness and texture to shine while using Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon as complementary voices rather than dominant forces.

Tasting Notes

This Right Bank-inspired blend opens with aromas of ripe blackberry and plum, layered with subtle notes of cocoa and integrated oak that whisper rather than announce themselves. On the palate, the wine unfolds with textured elegance—blackberry and plum take center stage, accompanied by dark chocolate notes and a velvety mouthfeel that speaks to the Merlot's dominance in the blend. The tannin structure is refined and supple, carrying the wine toward a long, persistent finish that balances power with finesse.

Producer

Arrow & Branch is a Napa Valley producer dedicated to crafting premium Bordeaux-style blends that capture the essence of Right Bank appellations within California's terroir. The winery works with fruit from carefully selected vineyard sites across Napa, maintaining rigorous standards in both vineyard management and cellar work to achieve wines of depth and aging potential.

Terroir

Napa Valley's diverse microclimates and well-drained soils provide an ideal home for Merlot-based blends. The region's warm days and cool nights allow Merlot to develop ripe fruit character while maintaining the acidity and structure necessary for age-worthy wines. The valley floor and hillside vineyard sites used for this blend benefit from the moderating influence of the San Pablo Bay, which helps preserve elegance alongside ripeness.

Food Pairings

This wine is a natural match for pan-seared duck breast with cherry gastrique and roasted root vegetables, where the plush tannins complement the duck's richness without overwhelming its delicate flavor. For a more casual occasion, try it alongside a grilled burger with aged cheddar and crispy bacon, where the wine's chocolate and cocoa notes bridge beautifully to the savory, umami-rich elements on the plate.