1998 Sauvignon Blanc Eisele Vineyard
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Tasting notes
I have always enjoyed Araujo's lovely, fragrant Sauvignon Blanc. The 1998, a blend of 90% Sauvignon Blanc and 10% Viognier, is a fragrant, exotic style of Sauvignon. It exhibits copious quantities of honeysuckle, melon, and tropical fruit-like notes. Sadly, the production in 1998 was reduced by half, with a mere 500 cases as opposed to 1,200 made. This fresh, lively wine would be the ideal foil for Asian cuisine and barbecued chicken. Drink it over the next year. Tel. (707) 942-6061; Fax (707) 942-6471
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
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Musky aromas of peach, pear and mint, plus flinty and floral nuances. Juicy and light in the mouth, with firm supporting acids. With its modest stuffing, this seems a bit skinny on the back end. A barrel sample of the '99 showed a wine with a bit more flavor intensity and depth, and better grip.
About the producer
Eisele Vineyard is one of Napa’s oldest properties, first planted in the 1880s. Today owned by François Pinault of Ch. Latour, it is known for its top Cabernet Sauvignon, as well as the unique Sauvignon Blanc.