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.
Pitch red in color. 14.8% ABV. Stunning nose of raspberry liqueur, baking spice and flowers. Medium body with tremendous mouthfeel. Raspberries, minerals, earth and smoked meats on the palate. The finish is tremendous with sweet, silky tannins. In a great place right now and much better than a bottle last year. Drink over the next 1-2 years.
My rating: 92 points.
Several years ago Bart and Daphne Araujo sold the winery to Francois Pinault, the owner of Chateau Latour. The winery is now known as Eisele Vineyard.
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