Araujo Estate is a 38-acre vineyard in northeast Napa Valley, east of Calistoga. It was established in 1990 when Bart and Daphne Araujo bought the historic vineyard from Milt and Barbara Eisele, who planted the vines in the 1960s. For nearly 40 years the Eisele Vineyard has been known as one of the valley’s great vineyards, consistently producing outstanding wines. The Araujos have completed many renovation projects since they acquired the estate, and have planted many varietals including Petit Verdot, Syrah, Sangiovese, Sauvignon Blanc and Viognier. Nevertheless the estate’s signature wine is its highly regarded Cabernet Sauvignon.
In 2013 Araujo was acquired by the Artemis Group which also owns Chateau Latour.
Inky purple in color with some fading at the edge of the glass. 14.8% ABV. Throwing a fair amount of sediment. Blue fruits, eucalyptus and violets on the nose. Medium body with ample acidity. Blueberries, white pepper, grilled meats and mint on the palate. Great structure and power that belies the 13 years of bottle age. Drink over the next year or two.
My rating: 93 points.
I was on the Araujo mailing list for the ’94 through ’06 vintages but have since moved on.
Araujo is one of the most prestigious wineries in all of Napa Valley. It does not get much more iconic than Eisele Vineyard. It can be included on a short list with the likes of Martha’s Vineyard and To Kalon Vineyard.
The Araujo wines can be obtained via the mailing list, at retail and frequently at auction.
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