- CRITICAL REVIEWS
- WINEMAKER NOTES
Jeb Dunnuck
Robert Parker Wine Advocate
2019 Eisele Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, USA
WINEGROWING INFORMATION
The 2019 vintage had an ideal start 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 craft as the plants grew 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 development. A warm and dry summer favored a rapid veraison, an even ripening of the clusters and a natural concentration of flavors. All the elements of a historic vintage were aligned. The autumnal equinox (September 23rd) marked the beginning of the Cabernet Sauvignon harvest within the heart of the alluvial fan while the hillside fruit came in last on October 3rd.There was barely any sorting necessary 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 100% new oak.The Eisele Vineyard grapes are certified ‘Organic’ by CCOF and ‘Biodynamic’ by Demeter.
TASTING NOTES
The magnificent 2019 vintage was born under the best possible conditions, with an abundance of welltimed rain and sunshine with no excess. Intense and sophisticated, the wine unveils with deep aromas of blue fruits, Bigarreau cherries and violets followed by subtle notes of rosemary and pencil lead. The mouthfeel is silky smooth, with incredible definition and finesse. Perfectly ripe and tight-knit tannins support the youthful energy of the fruit, layered with wild blueberry coulis. The very long finish lingers with mineral notes of graphite and volcanic soil, laced with aromas of Madagascar vanilla, cinnamon and wilted roses. The 2019 is beautiful, evocative and complex. Still, so much has yet to be revealed with bottle age. This is the quintessence of the Eisele Vineyard terroir.