The 2009 Altagracia is a rich, textured wine layered with perfumed red fruit. Ripe, silky tannins frame the long, exceptional finish. The 2009 impresses for its breadth and volume, all while maintaining a very classic profile. The delineation of the 2008 is missing, but in exchange readers will find a soft, supple wine loaded with class. In 2009 the blend is 66% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Merlot, 10% Petit Verdot, 8% Cabernet Franc and 6% Malbec. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2019. This is a great showing from Bart and Daphne Araujo and their team, headed by consultant Francoise Peschon and winemaker Nigel Kinsman. The Araujo wines are defined by their distinctive elegance and overall finesse. Earlier this year I had a chance to taste a number of wines from the Eisele vineyard made in the 1970s, before the Araujos bought the vineyard, that showed the inherent greatness of this Calistoga site. Naturally the Cabernet Sauvignon gets most of the attention here, but I find the Syrah almost as compelling. It is easily one of the finest Syrahs being made in Napa Valley. The 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon Eisele Vineyard had just been bottled a few weeks prior to my visit. I tasted two bottles, but neither was particularly forthcoming. I will report on the 2009 in a few months, once the wine has had a chance to settle down. Readers interested in learning more about the estate may want to take a look at my two-part interview with Bart and Daphne Araujo on www.erobertparker.comTel. (707) 942-6061

There are 400 cases of the 2008 Altagracia, which includes a lot of Petit Verdot (20%) in the Cabernet Sauvignon-dominated blend. The year’s spring frosts resulted in a smaller crop than usual resulting in a denser, richer but at the same time more texturally interesting and seductive style of wine. Its deep ruby/purple color is accompanied by lots of blue, red and black fruits as well as good minerality, purity and depth. It should drink well for 10-15 years. 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