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Wine Description
The Story
The Araujo Eisele Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon has a unique allure to it. It is the finesse, purity of fruit, vivid acidity and profound mineral character that set this wine apart from the other Napa wines. Its style is almost reminiscent of Pomerol. It is a sophisticated wine with great potential. Thanks to the Araujos vineyard management, the wines are showing an increasing amount of the terroir character. The terroir There are three terroir factors that give the Eisele Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon its unique character.
Firstly, the vineyard is located in a cove protected by the Palisades Mountains, which draw cool air from the Sonoma coastline to the site from the western Chalk Hill Gap. This helps the grapes keep their freshness and acidity, which is often a challenge given the warm Calistoga district.
The second factor is the subsoil composition, which is being shaped by the two tributaries crossing the vineyard. The subsoil is made up of volcanic cobbles derived from the Palisades Mountains. This deep rocky subsoil is well-draining causing the vine roots to penetrate deep into the ground in search of water. As the roots penetrate the soil levels, more mineral compounds are being absorbed adding minerals and complexity to the grapes. As the vineyard lies on a gently sloping hill there are parts of the vineyard with richer soil containing volcanic ash, small stones and red clay. These parts provide more weight and complexity to the flavour profile of the grapes.
The third terroir factor is formed by the Araujos themselves. Through innovative vineyard management practices, the Araujos have succeeded in transferring the unique terroir into their wines. Philosophy in winemaking The Araujos commitment to producing estate-grown wines of highest calibre and distinction has driven them to employ cutting-edge practices in farming and winemaking
Wine Information
The 1992 growing season was characterized by moderate weather conditions punctuated by a heat wave in late August. Deciding to wait out the heat, the winemaker’s patience was rewarded by cooler temperatures in September, allowing the vines to develop their fruit more gradually to optimal physiological ripeness. Selective picking made for a fine early crush. The grapes were harvested in mid-September, crushed in the newly completed estate winery, fermented in stainless steel tanks, then aged for 25 months in 100% new French oak, Chateau-style barrels. The wine was bottled in December 1994.
Tasting Notes
The 1992 vintage displays a spicy sweet nose, lively flavors of black currant, chocolate, toffee, and cedar, and a characteristically long mineral finish. Remarkably smooth, the wine delivers, a luscious mouthfeel, with richly concentrated fruit and silky tannins.
Consulting winemaker
Tony Soter notes: Vintages like 1992 tend to produce approachable wines with attractive ripe
fruit and soft tannins. This elegant wine shows the classic Eisele Vineyard cabernet flavors and an expressive early aroma development. Full bodied and powerful now, yet beautifully balanced, it will continue to develop with cellaring.
Grape Source
100% Cabernet Sauvignon Eisele Vineyard
Napa Valley
Production & Technical Data
Alcohol: 13.4%
Total Acid: 0.59%
pH: 3.77
Production: 810 cases
Release Date: October 1, 1995