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Wine Information
The 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Eisele Vineyard, tasted from barrel, bursts from the glass with a rush of dark red cherries, flowers, menthol, resin and licorice. Espresso and grilled herbs appear later, adding further shades of complexity. The 2010 is shaping up to be a magical, vibrant Cabernet from this historic site. In 2010 the blend is approximately 89% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Cabernet Franc and 4% Petit Verdot. Anticipated maturity: 2018-2033.
This is a great showing from Bart and Daphne Araujo and their team, headed by consultant Francoise Peschon and winemaker Nigel Kinsman. The Araujo wines are defined by their distinctive elegance and overall finesse. Earlier this year I had a chance to taste a number of wines from the Eisele vineyard made in the 1970s, before the Araujos bought the vineyard, that showed the inherent greatness of this Calistoga site. Naturally the Cabernet Sauvignon gets most of the attention here, but I find the Syrah almost as compelling. It is easily one of the finest Syrahs being made in Napa Valley. The 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon Eisele Vineyard had just been bottled a few weeks prior to my visit. I tasted two bottles, but neither was particularly forthcoming. I will report on the 2009 in a few months, once the wine has had a chance to settle down.
eParker