Eisele Vineyard Estate

The Eisele family quickly recognized the exceptional potential of their land, producing Cabernet Sauvignon that garnered critical acclaim. For many years, fruit from the Eisele Vineyard was sold to renowned wineries like Conn Creek and Ridge Vineyards, contributing to some of Napa Valley's most celebrated wines. These wines further solidified the vineyard's reputation as a source of exceptional quality.

Eisele Vineyard Estate, located on Pickett Road in Calistoga, California, boasts a history deeply intertwined with the evolution of Napa Valley's wine industry. While the estate is relatively young compared to some of Napa's legacy wineries, its impact has been profound. The vineyard's story began in the early 1970s when it was planted by Milton and Barbara Eisele.

In 1990, the property was purchased by Bart and Daphne Araujo, who established Araujo Estate Wines. Under their stewardship, the estate transitioned to organic and Biodynamic farming practices, further enhancing the quality and character of the wines. In 2013, the estate was acquired by the Artemis Domaines, owners of Château Latour in Bordeaux, marking a new chapter while maintaining the commitment to excellence and sustainable viticulture. The name was subsequently changed back to Eisele Vineyard Estate, honoring its original founders and legacy.

The Calistoga AVA experiences a wide diurnal temperature range, with warm days and cool nights. This temperature variation allows the grapes to ripen fully while retaining acidity, contributing to the balance and structure of the wines. The vineyard's location also provides protection from the strong winds that can affect other parts of Napa Valley.

The Eisele Vineyard's terroir is a critical factor in the exceptional quality of its wines. Located in the northeastern part of the Calistoga AVA, the vineyard benefits from a unique combination of soil, climate, and topography. The well-drained, gravelly soils, derived from ancient riverbeds, force the vines to struggle, resulting in concentrated flavors and complex aromas in the grapes.

Eisele Vineyard Estate is farmed using organic and Biodynamic principles, reflecting a deep commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable viticulture. These practices promote soil health, biodiversity, and vine vitality, resulting in wines that express the unique character of the terroir. The estate's dedication to these practices is evident in the vibrant ecosystem that thrives within the vineyard.

The winemaking philosophy at Eisele Vineyard Estate emphasizes minimal intervention, allowing the fruit to express its natural character. The grapes are hand-harvested and carefully sorted, and the wines are fermented using native yeasts. Aging takes place in French oak barrels, carefully selected to complement the fruit's flavors and aromas.

Eisele Vineyard Estate is primarily known for its Cabernet Sauvignon, which is considered one of the finest examples of the varietal in Napa Valley. The estate also produces small quantities of other wines, including Syrah and Sauvignon Blanc, all crafted with the same meticulous attention to detail and commitment to quality.

The resulting wines are characterized by their elegance, complexity, and ageability. The Cabernet Sauvignon is known for its rich aromas of black fruit, cassis, and cedar, along with firm tannins and a long, lingering finish. The Syrah offers notes of blackberry, spice, and pepper, while the Sauvignon Blanc is crisp and refreshing with flavors of citrus and tropical fruit.

A visit to Eisele Vineyard Estate provides an opportunity to learn about the vineyard's history, terroir, and winemaking philosophy. Guests can tour the vineyards, explore the winery, and taste the estate's flagship wines. The experience is designed to be intimate and educational, providing a deeper appreciation for the art and science of winemaking.

Due to the limited production and high demand for Eisele Vineyard Estate wines, visits are typically by appointment only and often reserved for members of their allocation list or through established relationships. Gaining access to the estate is a privilege and offers a rare glimpse into the meticulous practices that contribute to the wines' exceptional quality.

Given the exclusive nature of visits, it's recommended to inquire well in advance and express genuine interest in the estate's wines and philosophy. While open to the public, priority is given to those with a strong connection to the brand or a desire to learn more about its unique approach to winemaking. Contacting the winery directly through their website is the best way to inquire about potential visit opportunities.

The Artemis Domaines' stewardship of Eisele Vineyard Estate ensures that the estate's legacy of excellence will continue for generations to come. Their commitment to sustainable viticulture and minimal intervention winemaking aligns perfectly with the estate's existing philosophy.

Eisele Vineyard Estate has cemented its place as a Napa Valley icon, consistently producing wines that are recognized among the world's finest. The estate's commitment to organic and Biodynamic farming, combined with its exceptional terroir and meticulous winemaking practices, ensures that its wines will continue to be highly sought after by collectors and connoisseurs.

Looking ahead, Eisele Vineyard Estate will likely continue to focus on producing small quantities of exceptional wines that showcase the unique character of its terroir. The estate's dedication to quality and sustainability will undoubtedly solidify its position as a leader in the Napa Valley wine industry.