Eisele Vineyard 'Altagracia' Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, CA 2021

Altagracia, named after Bart Araujo’s grandmother, is a Bordeaux-style blend vinified in the same manner as the Eisele Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon. It is essentially the expression of the Eastern parcels of the Eisele Vineyard, completed with fruit sourced from other Napa Valley vineyards where we hold long-term grape contracts and which are farmed to our specifications. This Napa Valley Proprietary Red, while very ageable, is readily enjoyable in its youth.

The 2021 vintage started with low rainfall and warmer temperatures, leading to early budbreak and balanced canopy density. The vineyard saw seasonable temperatures from mid-July to mid-August, producing optimal conditions for veraison. Harvested at the peak of ripeness, the wine showcases the unique characteristics of the Eisele Vineyard’s eastern parcels.

• Winemaker: Hélène Mingot
  
• Farming: Certified organic (CCOF) and biodynamic (Demeter) farming practices.
• Variety: 89% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Cabernet Franc, 6% Petit Verdot
• Terroir: Eastern parcels of the Eisele Vineyard, Napa Valley. The vineyard experiences low cumulative rainfall, warmer temperatures, and early vegetative growth, leading to balanced foliage density and optimal ripeness.
• Vinification: Harvested between September 3rd and September 30th. Classic extraction and maceration protocol due to excellent ripeness. Aged for 21 months in a combination of French oak barrels (82%) and Austrian oak foudres (18%).
• Aging: 21 months in French oak barrels (82%) and Austrian oak foudres (18%).
• Tasting Note: Earthy notes of forest soil, humus, and pine needles, with violets, cinnamon, blackberry, and a hint of sandalwood. Supple, velvety mouthfeel with vibrant, tight-knit tannins. Flavors of red and black currants, blackberries, extending into a lingering finish of tobacco, cumin, and turmeric. The mineral expression of the volcanic hillsides is evident, highlighting the wine's aging potential.
• Pairings: Ideal with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, and hearty pasta dishes.
• Service Temperature: Serve at 16-18°C (60-64°F).
• Produced Bottles: 1,468 cases made
• Release Date: February 14, 2024