2004 Syrah Eisele Vineyard
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Tasting notes
Previously recommended, but no tasting note given. 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
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
Saturated ruby-red. Captivating, varietally expressive aromas of dark berries, dark chocolate, violet and white pepper. Juicy, spicy and rather powerful, but with lovely balance and good floral lift to the flavors of berries, meat, spice and hot stones. Finishes with substantial chewy tannins and lingering sweetness. This shows a chocolatey ripeness, but its firm structure gives it a rather suave quality and prevents it from coming off as heavy.
Deep ruby-red. Black fruits and spices on the rather primary nose. Fat with dark fruits but classically dry and brooding, with very good lift. Finishes very long, with sweet, dusty tannins and noteworthy grip. This was racked after the malolactic fermentation but not since then.
About the producer
Eisele Vineyard is one of Napa’s oldest properties, first planted in the 1880s. Today owned by François Pinault of Ch. Latour, it is known for its top Cabernet Sauvignon, as well as the unique Sauvignon Blanc.