Absolutely superb, this 2003 is drinking beautifully. This blend of 88% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Cabernet Franc and 3% Petit Verdot from the famous hillside Eisele Vineyard in northeast Napa Valley tips the scales at 14.5% natural alcohol. Gorgeously fresh black currant and black raspberry notes intermixed with spring flowers and forest floor jump from the glass from one of the most aromatically complex wines of the vintage. Medium to full-bodied with sweet fruit, velvety, melted, integrated tannin, a round, generous mouthfeel and no evidence of oak, this is a classy, elegant as well as substantial beauty that continues to age well. It may even be superior to Araujo’s 2002, which, on paper, is a better vintage. The seductive, alluring 2003 should remain at this level for another 5-8 years, but there is no reason to defer your gratification. Bravo!

(88% cabernet sauvignon, 9% cabernet franc and 3% petit verdot) Good ruby-red. Captivating aromas of black raspberry, toffee, mocha and flowers. Dense, lush and sweet, with fruit flavors complicated by game, mocha and brown spices. This offers lovely harmony and finishes very suave and very long, with an enticing fruit/tannin balance. Likely to age well.

Wonderfully executed ripe cherry and currant-laced fruit is shaded by spicy, toasty oak that picks up hints of mocha and espresso. Avoids excessive ripeness and is well-balanced, with a long finish that shows firm, structured tannins and a touch of mineral. Best from 2009 through 2013. 1,600 cases made.