Araujo Estate is a property located in the northeast Napa Valley, just east of Calistoga. Its two primary components are the 38-acre Eisele Vineyard, and a winery and cave complex built specifically to vinify only Eisele Vineyard grapes. The vineyard was established more than 120 years ago, and was first planted to Cabernet Sauvignon in 1964. The Eisele Vineyard is one of the most respected Cabernet Sauvignon vineyards in the Napa Valley. Warm days, cool nights and well-drained cobbly soils produce remarkable wines. It is interesting to note that Ridge Vineyards and Joseph Phelps have both produced outstanding vineyard designated wines from this great site. Araujo Estate is one of the few wineries in California to be completely organic and be certified by Demeter Association. All of the grapes are hand-picked, sorted, then moved to the stainless steel or concrete tanks for fermentation. Ageing of the wines takes place in French oak barrels. Since their first vintage in 1991, Araujo wines have exemplified the character of the Eisele Vineyard and have set a very high standard of quality. They have become one of the most sought after Cabernet Sauvignons in the world and have become a staple at wine auctions worldwide.
About WineThe wine was barrel-aged sur lie for six months with weekly batonnage, and bottled in March, 2010. The grapes were certified ‘Organic’ by California Certified Organic Farmers and ‘Biodynamic’ by Demeter.
Tasting NotesThis wine reveals vibrant aromas of exotic mango, guava and lemongrass, with added tropical nuances of jasmine, citrus blossom and Kaffir lime. In the mouth, it is succulent and engaging, with its rich fruit components melding into a lingering mineral finish. Notes winemaker Matt Taylor: This wine’s expression of the Eisele Vineyard is reflected in its mouth filling concentration and balance of tropical essences and subtle minerality. The beautiful balance of acidity and fruit creates a seamless texture that continues through the persistent finish.
