ARAUJO ESTATE WINES — THE PUREST EXPRESSION OF THE LEGENDARY EISELE VINEYARD
An iconic Napa Valley estate, farmed biodynamically, and producer of one of the world’s greatest Cabernet Sauvignons.
General Presentation
Founded in the 1990s by Daphne and Bart Araujo, Araujo Estate Wines quickly established itself as the leading reference of northern Napa Valley. Located in Calistoga on one of America’s most admired vineyard sites — the legendary Eisele Vineyard — the estate combines precision farming, purity of expression and a profound respect for the living world.
Since 2013, the estate has been part of Artémis Domaines (François Pinault), owner of Château Latour, further strengthening its pursuit of excellence. This alliance of French expertise with Californian terroir has elevated the name “Eisele” to the ranks of the world’s greatest wines.
Terroir & Philosophy
Located in a cool corridor of Calistoga, the Eisele Vineyard lies on gravelly alluvial soils rich in stones and minerals, reminiscent of the finest sites on Bordeaux’s Left Bank.
The vineyard, first planted in the late 19th century, is now farmed biodynamically — a rarity in Napa Valley. The approach prioritises:
- active preservation of soil life,
- low and carefully managed yields,
- constant observation of the vines,
- a natural balance pursued at every stage.
This terroir gives Cabernet Sauvignon a unique character: freshness, elegance, depth and a vibrant minerality seldom found in California.
Style & Identity
The wines of Araujo Estate — foremost the Cabernet Sauvignon Eisele Vineyard — are defined by:
- complex aromatics (blackcurrant, blackberry, cedar, graphite, violet, fine spices),
- a silky texture supported by remarkably fine tannins,
- a vertical, structured depth without heaviness,
- a pure, vibrant minerality,
- a long ageing potential, often spanning several decades.
These wines combine Californian concentration with an almost European elegance.
Signature Wines
| Cuvée | Type | Style & Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Cabernet Sauvignon – Eisele Vineyard | Red | The estate’s flagship wine. Deep, refined, structured. The purest expression of the vineyard: controlled power, length, precision and aromatic brilliance. A true Napa Valley icon. |
| Syrah – Eisele Vineyard | Red | A rare cuvée inspired by northern Rhône typicity: violet, black olive, pepper, velvety texture and striking elegance. Highly sought after by collectors. |
| Sauvignon Blanc – Eisele Vineyard | White | One of California’s greatest white wines. Energy, lime zest, fresh herbs, chiselled minerality. A perfect balance between tension and refined density. |
Conclusion
Araujo Estate Wines embodies the very best of Californian wine: an exceptional terroir, exemplary farming, precision craftsmanship and uncommon consistency. The Eisele Vineyard produces some of the world’s most coveted bottles, combining intensity, elegance and depth. A benchmark estate for collectors and wine lovers seeking iconic, timeless wines deeply connected to their place of origin.