2003 Syrah Eisele Vineyard
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Tasting notes
Although production is tiny (300 cases), Araujo’s Eisele Vineyard Syrah is an ageworthy effort that is generally co-fermented with a small amount of Viognier (around 4%), and aged in French oak (50% new). The 2003 Syrah Eisele Vineyard reveals a wonderful blackberry, chocolate, and peppery-scented nose along with good subtlety as well as authoritative richness, power, and purity. It is a stunning Syrah that should last a decade even though it will provide immediate gratification. Tel. (707) 942-6061; Fax (707) 942-6471
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
Good ruby-red color. Aromatic, high-pitched nose combines blackberry, flowers and nutty oak. Sweet and stylish, with subtly complex flavors of black raspberry, plum sauce, Asian spices and mocha, all lifted by a floral element. Intriguing syrah that's neither Rhone nor California in style. Finishes with very fine tannins and sexy spices. An excellent vintage for this bottling.
Deep ruby. Blackberry and licorice on the nose. Broad and a bit reduced in the mouth, with more smoke, game and brown spices than fruit showing today. Comes across as a bit less sweet today than the 2002.
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.