Araujo Estate is a 38-acre vineyard in northeast Napa Valley, east of Calistoga. It was established in 1990 when Bart and Daphne Araujo bought the historic vineyard from Milt and Barbara Eisele, who planted the vines in the 1960s. For nearly 40 years the Eisele Vineyard has been known as one of the valley’s great vineyards, consistently producing outstanding wines. The Araujos have completed many renovation projects since they acquired the estate, and have planted such varietals as Petit Verdot, Syrah, Sangiovese, Sauvignon Blanc and Viognier. Nevertheless the estate’s signature wine is its highly regarded Cabernet Sauvignon.
Gold and straw colored. 14.3% ABV. Lemon and grass on the nose. Pear, pineapple, honeysuckle and citrus on the palate. Rich and creamy. Great mouthfeel. The wine is lush and decadent. Paired beautifully with a chicken ceasar salad. Drink over the next year or so.
My rating: 91 points.
Araujo is one of the most prestigious wineries in all of Napa Valley. It does not get much more iconic than Eisele Vineyard. It can be included on a short list with the likes of Martha’s Vineyard and To Kalon Vineyard.
The Araujo wines can be obtained via the mailing list, at retail and frequently at auction. None of the wines can be considered a bargain. From memory the Sauvignon Blanc is right around $60.
If you enjoyed this post please consider subscribing to Zinfandel Chronicles updates by email.