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Robert Parker Wine Advocate
2019 Eisele Vineyard 'Altagracia' Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, USA
WINEGROWING INFORMATION
The 2019 vintage started off on the right foot with abundant winter rains that contributed to good mineralization in the soils. Low temperatures in February led to the latest bud break and bloom since 2012. A cool and rainy Spring put our vignerons in perfect conditions to perform their craftsmanship as the plants were growing slowly, leading to plush and perfectly manicured canopies. As the season progressed, mild climatic demand combined with a late onset of moderate water stress encouraged good polyphenol levels. A warm and dry summer without any excesses, requiring little to no irrigation, favored a rapid veraison, an even ripening of the clusters and a natural concentration of flavors. The autumnal equinox (September 23rd) marked the beginning of the Cabernet Sauvignon harvest starting with the dry-farmed vines while the late-ripening Petit Verdot came in last on October 10th. There was barely any sorting required in the cellar. The perfect ripeness of the skins resulted in a high level of polymeric anthocyanin and moderate tannin levels, leading to very silky and expressive young wines. This 2019 vintage was aged for 19 months in a combination of French oak barrels (93%) and Austrian oak foudres (7%), amounting to 90% new oak. The Eisele Vineyard grapes are certified ‘Organic’ by CCOF and ‘Biodynamic’ by Demeter.
TASTING NOTES
This is an exceptional vintage. The 2019 Altagracia Cabernet emerges out of the glass with intense aromas of black cherries, black currant liqueur and blackberry pie spiced up with cinnamon, nutmeg and a hint of rosewood and sandalwood. The mouthfeel is ample and supple, velvety yet vibrant with fine powdery tannins, a bright freshness and sparkling energy. The long and savory finish lingers with spices framed by a hint of saltiness. As the wine opens, layers of floral notes, pencil shavings and volcanic stones add to the complexity. This is a very enticing and captivating Altagracia that reflects the complexity of its soils, the generosity of its climate and the vitality of its plants; in other words: a wine true to its terroir.
GRAPE SOURCE
88% Cabernet Sauvignon
7% Cabernet Franc
5% Petit Verdot
Ageing: 19 months in 80% new French oak barrels
1,940 cases made - Release date: February 9, 2022