2017 Eisele Vineyard Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon (1.5L)

A prominent tobacco leaf note leads off, quickly followed by a deep well of warm steeped black currant and blackberry fruit. Flashes of Turkish coffee, humus and roasted bay leaf score the finish and then linger, letting the core of fruit stretch out and expand. A wine bristling with distinctive terroir. Best from 2022 through 2042. 1,284 cases made. (JM)

17++/20 100% Cabernet Sauvignon. Made entirely from the alluvial fan laid down by Simmons Creek in what the team considers the heart of the Eisele vineyard. Certified organic by CCOF and biodynamic by Demeter. Released June 2020. The 2017 vintage was a challenge for many producers as the heatwave in September created difficult conditions for vines. The Eisele 2017 still has precision and focus that shows success in a challenging year. It doesn’t capture the absolute poise and sophistication of 2016 but is still an impressive and beautiful wine. The aromas bring together notes of plum, grapefruit pith, a touch of coffee, cracked pine and a hint of witch hazel. It falls somewhere between the floral elements of 2016 and the savoury character of 2015 with slightly more tactile tannins than other vintages, while the acidity is balanced and persistent. The wine is in its introspective phase currently and will surely become more expressive and open given a few more years in bottle. There is good persistence and plenty of detail to deliver a beautiful wine after a few years in the cellar. (ECB) (Drink between 2028-2055) (ECB)