2005 Cabernet Sauvignon Eisele Vineyard

Drinking quite well, the wine is lushly textured, full bodied and concentrated with ripe, juicy, fleshy, blackberries, tobacco, wet earth and cherry tones. Fresh, vibrant, balanced and complex, this is really great for drinking for today. 96 Points

A nose of black raspberries interwoven with floral notes of blackcurrants and spice jump from the glass of this dense ruby/plum/purple wine. This famous vineyard at the northern end of Napa Valley, which in this era was owned by Bart and Daphne Araujo (today owned by François Pinault, the proprietor of Château Latour), can certainly make the argument that it’s one of the first growths of Napa Valley. Sweet, velvety tannin, medium to full body, and extraordinary complexity and elegance characterize this wine, which is seamless and drinking beautifully. While not one of their longest-lived vintages, the balance and purity suggest that, while it may be entering its fully mature stage, it certainly can keep going for another 10-15 years. The finish is easily 40 seconds-plus.

Dark but with an evolved rim. Tingly nose of real interest. Lots of concentration and a hint of orange peel. Very thick but I think if one were to come across this in Bordeaux, it would be found impressive in a Pavie sort of way. The texture on the end is not too painful or exaggerated. Even if the flavours tend towards pure ripeness and sweetness. Blind guess: mountain. Revealed location: valley. (JR)