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 many varietals including Petit Verdot, Syrah, Sangiovese, Sauvignon Blanc and Viognier. Nevertheless the estate’s signature wine is its highly regarded Cabernet Sauvignon.
Pale gold in color. 14% ABV. Grapefruit, kiwi and fresh cut grass on the nose. Creamy in texture and a touch of acidity. Lemon, lime and more grapefruit on the palate. This bottle was lost in the cellar and aged longer than originally intended. That being said there is a lot to like here on a hot summer night. Clearly ready to drink.
My rating: 90 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.
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