Araujo
History and Background
The Eisele Vineyard, where Araujo Estate wines were born, has a rich history dating back to the 1880s. However, it was in 1990 that Bart and Daphne Araujo acquired this world-class vineyard, ushering in a new era of excellence. Under their stewardship, Araujo Estate became synonymous with wines of remarkable quality and character. In 2013, the estate was acquired by the French Pinault family's Artemis Group, which also owns Château Latour in Bordeaux. Following the acquisition, the estate was renamed Eisele Vineyard in honor of its historic terroir.
Vineyards and Terroir
The Eisele Vineyard spans about 38 acres in the northeastern Napa Valley, near Calistoga. The vineyard's terroir is characterized by:
Soil: Well-draining cobbly soils, which are ideal for producing concentrated and complex wines.
Climate: Benefiting from the Palisades Mountains' protection, the vineyard enjoys a unique microclimate, with morning fog and cool evening breezes that help maintain acidity and balance in the grapes.
Wine Style and Production
Under the Araujo name, the estate became particularly renowned for its Cabernet Sauvignon, which was celebrated for its depth, elegance, and structure and its expressive representation of the unique Eisele Vineyard terroir.
In addition to Cabernet Sauvignon, the estate produces Syrah, Sauvignon Blanc, and other varietals, all crafted with meticulous attention to detail and a focus on expressing the vineyard's character.
Reputation
Araujo's Eisele Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon quickly became one of Napa Valley's benchmark wines, consistently receiving high scores from critics and sought after by collectors worldwide. The combination of an exceptional terroir, sustainable and organic viticulture, and expert winemaking resulted in wines that stood shoulder to shoulder with the world's best.
Final Thoughts
While the Araujo name may have transitioned to Eisele Vineyard, the legacy of excellence established by the Araujo family endures. The vineyard continues to produce wines that are a testament to the potential of Napa Valley's terroir, capturing the essence of the land in each bottle. For those passionate about Napa Valley wines, the offerings from this estate, whether under the Araujo or Eisele Vineyard label, represent some of the region's finest.