At a glance

Producer

Araujo Estate Wines

Region

Napa Valley, California, USA

Grape variety

Cabernet Sauvignon

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$250 - $350

Tasting profile

Blackcurrant, cassis, eucalyptus, graphite, with firm structure and deep concentration

Evolution: Fruit will soften with time, tertiary notes of tobacco, leather, and earth develop after a decade

At peak: Complex layering of dark fruit, mineral, and savory secondary notes with integrated tannins

Structure

Acidity

Balanced, medium-plus acidity

Tannins

Firm, well-structured tannins

Alcohol

14.5% ABV

Aging potential

20-30+ years depending on cellar conditions

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2028 to 2055

Optimal window

2025 to 2058

Current status

Approaching early drinking window

Current condition

Youthful with primary fruit and tannic structure developing

The 2018 vintage's intensity and structure combined with Eisele Vineyard's gravelly soils produce wines that evolve gracefully with a long peak between 10-20 years after vintage.

Food pairing

Pairs well with grilled ribeye, venison, lamb stew, aged hard cheeses, and dishes with earthy mushroom sauces

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (1-2 hours) — To soften tannins and allow complex aromas to open up

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 8/10

Utilizes organic vineyard practices, water conservation via drip irrigation, solar energy panels on winery, minimal chemical intervention, recyclable packaging

Araujo Estate Wines maintains a strong commitment to environmental stewardship through sustainable farming, energy efficiency, and water conservation. While not fully organic or biodynamic certified, their practices significantly reduce ecological impact relative to conventional producers.