Description
Eisele Vineyard ‘Altagracia’ Cabernet Sauvignon 2013
The 2013 ‘Altagracia’ is a sophisticated proprietary blend representing a distinct expression of the legendary Eisele Vineyard in the Calistoga AVA. The composition for this vintage is 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Cabernet Franc, 6% Petit Verdot, and 4% Malbec. The 2013 growing season in Napa Valley is widely regarded as a "dream vintage," characterized by a warm, dry spring and consistent temperatures throughout the summer. These conditions allowed for an even harvest of small, thick-skinned berries, resulting in a wine of exceptional concentration and structural integrity. The vineyard itself sits on an alluvial fan at the base of the Palisades Mountains, where cobbly, well-draining soils impart a signature minerality to the fruit.
In the glass, the wine presents a dense, opaque purple color that hints at its power. The nose is immediately captivating and floral, offering a bouquet of crushed violets, roses, and lilacs that gives way to intense aromas of blackcurrant, blueberry, and black raspberry. As the wine breathes, complex tertiary notes of graphite, licorice, forest floor, and blond tobacco become apparent. On the palate, this is a full-bodied and dry wine, defined by a lush, opulent texture and tannins that are polished and silky. Flavors of crème de cassis, savory olive tapenade, and slate dominate the mouth, balanced by a vibrant freshness that carries through to a long, ultra-clean finish.
Eisele Vineyard is a pioneer in conscientious viticulture, having been farmed organically since 1998 and biodynamically since 2000. This commitment to regenerative farming ensures the purest expression of the terroir. The 2013 vintage is historically significant as it marks the acquisition of the estate by Artemis Domaines (owners of Château Latour), blending the property's rich history with meticulous French winemaking techniques, including aging in French oak barrels to refine the structure without masking the fruit.
Critics have praised this release highly, with James Suckling awarding it 95 points and Robert Parker's Wine Advocate giving it 94 points. While the flagship Eisele Cabernet commands a significant premium, the ‘Altagracia’ offers a relative value, providing a more accessible entry point to this historic estate's portfolio. For a classic American pairing, serve this wine with a charcoal-grilled ribeye steak; the wine’s graphite notes and firm tannins will cut through the rich marbling and complement the char. Alternatively, it pairs beautifully with slow-braised beef short ribs, where the wine's savory depth and dark fruit profile harmonize with the gelatinous richness of the meat.
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