First planted to vines in the 1880s, Eisele Vineyard sits in the northeast Napa Valley, just east of Calistoga at the base of the Palisades Mountain range. Farmed organically since 1998 and biodynamically since 2000, the site has been principally dedicated to Cabernet Sauvignon for the last fifty years. Beginning with the inaugural release bearing the Eisele name in 1971, this iconic vineyard has received consistent recognition for possessing one of the great terroirs of Napa Valley. The wines invariably express the exceptional depth, elegance and longevity which are hallmarks of the Eisele Vineyard.

WINEGROWING INFORMATION 

The start of the 2021 vintage was reminiscent of 2018, with low cumulative rainfall during dormancy and warmer than average temperatures, leading to budbreak on April 1st. This trend continued in the Spring, with the lowest rainfall recorded during the period of canopy expansion (March to July). High climatic demand precipitated an early decline in soil moisture, leading to exceptionally early intervention in the vineyard. As expected, the stop of vegetative growth came early and the balance between foliage density and the cluster size was ideal to mitigate potential heat spikes. Seasonable temperatures from mid-July to mid-August produced optimum conditions for veraison. The ensuing ripening period was intense with a first heat event in August and a second in September. While the accumulation of sugar slowed down, the berry size remained consistent thanks to misting and canopy management. A long maturation period ensued, similar to 2016 and 2019, producing optimum ripeness of the skins. The dry farmed Cabernets were harvested on September 3rd. The Paloma 1 block adjacent to Simmons Creek was picked on September 16th and the Piedras 1 block on the volcanic hillsides concluded our harvest on September 30th . The excellent ripeness level of the skins allowed a classic protocol of extraction and maceration. This 2021 vintage was aged for 21 months in a combination of French oak barrels (82%) and Austrian oak foudres (18%), for a savory combination of ripe fruit and spicy notes. The Eisele Vineyard grapes are certified ‘Organic’ by CCOF and ‘Biodynamic’ by Demeter. (1,468 cases made)

TASTING NOTES

The 2021 Altagracia unfolds with earthy notes of forest soil, humus and pine needles. After a swirl or two, scents of violets, cinnamon and blackberry, spring out of the glass with a hint of sandalwood. The mouthfeel is supple, velvety yet vibrant with tight-knit tannins accompanied by a crescendo of red and black currants and blackberries. This impression extends into a lingering finish of tobacco, cumin and turmeric with a stunning powdery texture of a freshly picked fruit. This mineral expression of the volcanic hillsides is the blueprint of Altagracia’s personality and offers a glimpse of its ageing potential. A spectacular expression of the eastern parcels of Eisele Vineyard!

Varietals: 89% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Cabernet Franc, 6% Petit Verdot,

Region: Eisele Vineyard, Calistoga, Napa Valley, California