From a cooler year, the 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon Eisele Vineyard was completely harvested before the rains arrived. It should be a normal blend of 90% Cabernet Sauvignon and the rest Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. More chocolate aromas appear in the wine’s perfume as well as notes of flowers, cassis and crushed rocks. Medium to full-bodied with striking purity and a seamless, well-formed style, this beauty is, surprisingly, potentially better than the 2007. Moreover, the 2009 should drink well early on and last for 20-25+ years. (Not yet released)One of the most extraordinary vineyards of Napa Valley is the Eisele Vineyard, which boasts a 40+ year history of producing compelling wines. It is hard to argue with the track record of this hallowed ground in the northeastern sector just southeast of the old cowboy town of Calistoga. I had a chance to retaste Araujo’s 2007s, which were surprisingly less promising than my barrel tastings suggested. Both the Altagracia and the Cabernet Sauvignon Eisele Vineyard have improved – slightly.Tel. (707) 942-6061; Fax (707) 942-6471