2009 Araujo Estate Altagracia II

The Altagracia II has only been made twice in 2007 and 2009, effectively a seldom and perhaps never again to be offered third wine for Eisele Vineyard Estate, formerly Araujo, where the Eisele Vineyard Cabernet is the flagship wine. The Altagracia II gets some of it fruit from the Eisele vineyard but it also gets grapes from other Napa locations. The 2009 is predominantly Cabernet with some classic Bordeaux varieties added to the blend. 

This wine has a wonderful nose, rich earthy tones combined with dark berry fruit. 

It was slow developing in the glass, a bit closed at first. But after having a chance to develop a bit, it opened up with rich blackberry and spice, with nicely integrated tannins. It has a medium long finish with lovely dark fruit flavors.

I rate this wine a 94. I am sure that the Altagracia and the Eisele Vineyard Cab would be superb wines given the sorting process, but this is still a wine that I am very glad was made. Very enjoyable.  


WR