Eisele Vineyard Estate (formerly Araujo Winery)

Eisele Vineyard Estate, formerly known as Araujo Estate Wines, boasts a rich history intertwined with the evolution of Napa Valley's fine wine scene. The Eisele Vineyard itself has a longer history, dating back to the 1880s when it was planted with Zinfandel. However, its modern legacy began in 1964 when Milton and Barbara Eisele purchased the property and began farming Cabernet Sauvignon, quickly establishing its reputation for exceptional quality.

The Araujos' dedication and vision propelled the estate to cult status, earning accolades from critics and collectors worldwide. In 2013, the estate was acquired by François Pinault, owner of Château Latour, marking a new chapter in its illustrious history. The name was changed to Eisele Vineyard Estate, honoring the vineyard's foundational legacy while continuing the pursuit of excellence.

In 1990, Bart and Daphne Araujo acquired the estate, renaming it Araujo Estate Wines and embarking on a journey to elevate the vineyard's potential even further. They were pioneers in adopting organic and Biodynamic farming practices, demonstrating a commitment to environmental stewardship and allowing the terroir to express itself authentically in the wines.

Located in the northeast corner of Napa Valley, near Calistoga, the Eisele Vineyard benefits from a unique terroir. The vineyard's gravelly, well-drained soils, combined with its warm days and cool nights, create ideal conditions for growing Cabernet Sauvignon. The alluvial fan formed over millennia by the Napa River contributes to the complex soil composition, adding depth and character to the wines.

The vineyard is meticulously managed, with careful attention paid to every detail, from pruning and canopy management to harvest decisions. The goal is to produce grapes of exceptional quality that reflect the vineyard's unique terroir and the vintage's specific characteristics.

The Eisele Vineyard's commitment to organic and Biodynamic farming practices is central to its philosophy. These practices focus on soil health, biodiversity, and minimal intervention, allowing the vines to thrive naturally and express the unique characteristics of the terroir. Cover cropping, composting, and other sustainable methods are employed to enhance the vineyard's ecosystem.

Eisele Vineyard Estate is renowned for its Cabernet Sauvignon, which is the flagship wine of the estate. The Eisele Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon is celebrated for its concentration, complexity, and elegance. It typically exhibits aromas of black fruit, cassis, cedar, and spice, with a firm structure and a long, lingering finish. The wines are known for their ability to age gracefully.

In addition to Cabernet Sauvignon, the estate also produces a small amount of Sauvignon Blanc, which is equally prized for its purity, vibrancy, and minerality. This wine showcases the versatility of the Eisele Vineyard and the estate's commitment to producing exceptional wines across different varietals.

The winemaking philosophy at Eisele Vineyard Estate is guided by a desire to preserve the integrity of the fruit and allow the terroir to shine through. Minimal intervention techniques are employed, with careful attention paid to fermentation, aging, and blending. The wines are typically aged in French oak barrels, which contribute to their complexity and structure.

Tastings are often conducted in a private setting, allowing guests to sample the estate's flagship wines and learn about the unique characteristics of each vintage. The experience may also include a tour of the vineyard, providing an opportunity to see the vines firsthand and learn about the estate's organic and Biodynamic farming practices.

Given its cult status and limited production, Eisele Vineyard Estate offers a highly exclusive and personalized visitor experience. Visits are typically by appointment only and are tailored to provide guests with an in-depth understanding of the vineyard's history, terroir, and winemaking philosophy.

Due to the limited availability and high demand, it is recommended to inquire well in advance to secure a reservation. The visitor experience at Eisele Vineyard Estate is designed to be both educational and memorable, offering a rare glimpse into the world of a truly exceptional Napa Valley winery.

Under the ownership of François Pinault, Eisele Vineyard Estate is poised to continue its legacy of excellence. The estate benefits from the resources and expertise of one of the world's leading wine families, ensuring that it remains at the forefront of Napa Valley's fine wine scene.

Eisele Vineyard Estate has solidified its place as one of Napa Valley's most iconic wineries, consistently producing wines of exceptional quality and character. The estate's commitment to organic and Biodynamic farming practices, combined with its meticulous winemaking approach, ensures that the wines continue to reflect the unique terroir of the Eisele Vineyard.

The future of Eisele Vineyard Estate is bright, with a continued focus on sustainability, innovation, and the pursuit of perfection. The estate remains dedicated to producing wines that capture the essence of the Eisele Vineyard and reflect the passion and dedication of the people who work there.