Arnot-Roberts Winery

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Arnot-Roberts Winery 〰️

Arnot-Roberts Winery, founded in 2001 by childhood friends Duncan Arnot Meyers and Nathan Lee Roberts, is a key player in California’s modern, terroir-focused wine movement. Both founders grew up in Napa Valley and were heavily influenced by its agrarian culture. What started as a single barrel in a basement has evolved into a highly respected winery.

Philosophy and Winemaking Approach

Arnot-Roberts is known for its minimal intervention philosophy. The winemaking process relies on native yeasts, whole-cluster fermentation, and aging in neutral oak barrels. This approach allows the wines to reflect the distinct character of the vineyards and varietals without heavy manipulation, resulting in fresh, balanced, and expressive wines.

Vineyard Sources

The winery sources fruit from a diverse selection of cool-climate sites across California. These include the Sonoma Coast, Santa Cruz Mountains, Napa Valley, Santa Rita Hills, Clearlake, and the Sierra Foothills. Notable sites include:

  • Sanford & Benedict Vineyard in the Santa Rita Hills – known for old Wente clone Chardonnay planted in 1971.

  • Peter Martin Ray Vineyard in the Santa Cruz Mountains – a historic site for Pinot Noir and Cabernet Sauvignon.

These vineyards are chosen for their unique terroirs and often include old vines and dry-farmed practices.

Wine Portfolio

Arnot-Roberts produces a wide variety of wines, focusing on both well-known and underappreciated grape varieties. Their lineup includes:

  • Pinot Noir

  • Syrah

  • Chardonnay

  • Trousseau

  • Gamay

  • Ribolla Gialla

  • Zinfandel

  • California Rosé – typically a blend of Touriga Nacional, Tinta Cão, Trincadeira, and Grenache

 

Where to Find Arnot-Roberts Winery Wines

Direct from Arnot-Roberts & Online Retailers (US & International)

Arnot-Roberts Official Purchase Page (Mailing List) **The primary way to purchase directly.** Arnot-Roberts releases wines to their mailing list members via allocation. Joining the mailing list is highly recommended for direct access to new releases.
Wine-Searcher.com **Your best resource for finding retailers globally.** Search for "Arnot-Roberts" to find various merchants listing their wines and compare prices. This will show both in-stock and out-of-stock listings from a wide range of shops.
Total Wine & More (US National Retailer) A major national wine retailer in the US that often carries Arnot-Roberts wines. Check their website for local store stock and delivery options.
K&L Wine Merchants (California, Ships US) One of California's premier wine retailers with a comprehensive selection, frequently stocking various Arnot-Roberts wines. They offer shipping to many US states.
Flatiron Wines & Spirits (NYC & San Francisco, Ships US) A highly regarded retailer with locations in New York and San Francisco, known for their curated selection of fine and natural wines, including Arnot-Roberts. They offer shipping.
Wine.com (US Online Retailer) A large online wine retailer in the US that carries a selection of Arnot-Roberts wines. Availability can vary.
Roberson Wine (UK Online Retailer) A prominent UK-based online wine merchant that stocks a selection of Arnot-Roberts wines, offering delivery within the UK.

US & International Retailers & Distributors (Examples & General Tips)

Arnot-Roberts wines are distributed in key fine wine markets globally through a network of specialized importers and distributors. Their "Trade" or "Where to Buy" page on their official website (if available and up-to-date) would offer the most comprehensive list of their partners.

  • **Key US Distributors (based on industry presence):**
    • **Polaner Selections (NY, NJ, CT):** A major importer/distributor of high-quality wines in the Northeast. Arnot-Roberts is a cornerstone of their California portfolio.
    • **Beaune Imports (Northern California):** Specializes in fine wines and distributes Arnot-Roberts in Northern California.
    • **Woodberry Wine (Michigan):** Distributes Arnot-Roberts in Michigan.
    • *Many other states will have a dedicated fine wine distributor for Arnot-Roberts. Ask your local high-end wine shop who their California distributors are.*
  • **Independent Fine Wine Shops & Restaurants:**
    • *Look for high-end wine shops, natural wine shops, and restaurants with extensive wine lists.* Arnot-Roberts is a staple in many top wine programs.
    • Examples of retailers that might carry them include: Chambers Street Wines (NYC), The Wine House (LA), Solano Cellars (Berkeley), The Wise Old Dog (CT), Amanti Vino (NJ).
    • Many top restaurants that focus on American cuisine and fine dining will feature Arnot-Roberts wines on their lists.