2005 Eisele Vineyard (Araujo) Altagracia

The deep ruby/purple-tinged 2005 Altagracia (91% Cabernet Sauvignon and the rest Merlot and Petit Verdot) reveals a spicy, mineral-laden, black fruit, damp forest, truffle, and crushed rock-scented bouquet. With lovely fruit, medium to full body, and no hard edges, it is ideal for drinking over the next 10-15 years. Despite having over 40-plus acres of vineyards in the northeasterly sector of Napa just south of Calistoga, the production at Araujo remains relatively limited, with the flagship wine, the Cabernet Sauvignon Eisele Vineyard, producing between 1,600 and 2,200 cases of wine, and the second wine, the Altagracia, between 800 and 1,200 cases. Add to that another 1,000 cases of Sauvignon Blanc and 300-400 cases of Syrah, and there is just not a lot to go around given the greatness that can be achieved from this vineyard. Much of the credit has to go to proprietors Bart and Daphne Araujo and, of course, their top-notch winemaking team, which has always been led by Francoise Peschon. Araujo’s second wines are among the finest second wines consumers will find in northern California. For example, the Altagracia cuvees, which represent 25-35% of the production, have been outstanding examples of Cabernet Sauvignon. Araujo has done an excellent job with Syrah, which they typically co-ferment with 3-4% Viognier. Sadly, only 300-400 cases are produced. Tel. (707) 942-6061; Fax (707) 942-6471