Winemaker Notes
The nose of the 2020 Sauvignon Blanc slowly opens with scents of white flowers and candied nectarine. A gentle swirl unlocks incredibly delicate notes of pink grapefruit, orange blossom, lemon curd with meringue, white musk and a hint of oyster shell. The palate delivers crystalline minerality and creaminess with notes of toasted brioche, rose petal and lily of the valley, leading to a very pure and precise finish. Against the odds set by the exceptional climatic pressure of the vintage, this is perhaps the most vibrant and subtle Sauvignon Blanc ever produced from the Eisele Vineyard.
James Suckling 97 Points
Robert Parker 93 Points
About Eisele Vineyards
First planted to vines in the 1880s, Eisele Vineyard sits in the northeast Napa Valley, just east of Calistoga at the base of the Palisades Mountain range. Farmed organically since 1998 and biodynamically since 2000, the site has been principally dedicated to Cabernet Sauvignon for the last fifty years. Beginning with the inaugural release bearing the Eisele name in 1971, this iconic vineyard has received consistent recognition for possessing one of the great terroirs of Napa Valley. The wines invariably express the exceptional depth, elegance and longevity which are hallmarks of the Eisele Vineyard.
When we arrived at Araujo Estate in 2013, forty vintages had already carried the Eisele Vineyard designation. We admire and respect these wines immensely. Their exceptional balance, elegance and restraint spoke to us, and we found the expression of terroir to be pure, honest and unmistakable. We were captivated and humbled, knowing that giving voice to this place would be both a privilege and a challenge.
As we continue to write the history of Eisele Vineyard, we build on the spirit of stewardship that defines its past. Our journey here is an exploration, a quest to understand this vineyard more deeply — its geologic construct, the variations in terroir, and the nature of its ancient soils. Changes, when considered, are only in service to letting the terroir speak more clearly. To this work, our experienced team brings creativity, curiosity, and an unflagging passion for excellence.
