Eisele Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon "Altagracia" 2021
(Napa Valley, California) 750mL - [JS 96] [JD 94] [TWI 93]

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Notes from the Winemaker:
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.

Varietal Composition: 89% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Cabernet Franc, 6% Petit Verdot
Eisele Vineyard, Napa Valley
1,468 cases mad

Tasting Notes

96 Points - James Suckling:
"A solid Altagracia with currants, blueberries and pine and bark aromas and some sweet tobacco. Aromas that follow through on the palate to a full body with a well-framed tannin profile. Crunchy at the end. Juicy too. Needs as couple of years to come together. From biodynamically grown grapes with Demeter certification. Best after 2027." (Jan 2024)

94 Points - Jeb Dunnuck:"Coming from more hillside parcels and slightly more volcanic soils, the 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Altagracia checks in as a blend of 89% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Petit Verdot, and 5% Cabernet Franc. Aged in 82% new barrels, it has a deeper ruby hue to go with a beautiful perfume of darker currants, red plums, toasted spices, new leather, and dried tobacco. Medium to full-bodied, it has plenty of classic Napa Valley fruit yet also brings beautiful balance, ripe tannins, and a great finish. There are roughly 1,200-1,500 cases produced." (Dec 2023)

93 Points - The Wine Independent:
"The 2021 Altagracia is a blend of 88% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Cabernet Franc, and 5% Petit Verdot. Deep garnet-purple in color, it charges out of the gate with bold notes of blackcurrant pastilles, wild blueberries, and redcurrant jelly followed by hints of cinnamon stick, clove oil, dusty soil, and mossy tree bark. The full-bodied palate is packed with vibrant black berry and baking spice layers with an approachable frame of velvety tannins and plenty of freshness, finishing with a perfumed lift. Drinking 2025-2045" - LPB (Mar 2024)