Trois Noix

Freshness, precision and european influence in Oak Knoll

In the heart of the Napa Valley, within the Oak Knoll District, Trois Noix embodies a distinctive and resolutely contemporary interpretation of Californian viticulture. Founded by Jamie Araujo, a second-generation winemaker, the estate follows an artisanal approach where freshness, precision and drinkability take precedence over power.

“My style is very fresh, very elegant, very precise, with a light touch,” he explains. A philosophy deeply shaped by his background: “I lived in France for 14 years,” he adds, citing in particular the influence of Provençal rosés on his vision of wine.

The estate is based on two vineyards located on either side of the valley, offering complementary expressions. To the east, Ryan’s Vineyard, farmed organically, is rooted in light alluvial soils. “These are quite fine, very beautiful soils,” notes Jamie Araujo. To the west, on the Hanna slope, soils are deeper and heavier, marking a transition towards the elevations of Dry Creek. This vineyard is farmed regeneratively. “We tested it, and it makes a huge difference, both in the vineyard and in the wine,” he emphasises.

This geological and topographical duality allows for balanced wines, where freshness and texture interact with precision.

A parcel-driven, artisanal approach

With production intentionally limited to between 3,000 and 4,000 cases, Trois Noix produces around seven cuvées, ranging from Sauvignon Blanc to Cabernet Sauvignon, alongside Chenin Blanc, Chardonnay, Merlot and Cabernet Franc. The approach
is largely single-varietal and site-specific. “I almost always work with single varieties and vineyard designations,” explains Jamie Araujo, with minor adjustments depending on the vintage. Among recent developments, Chenin Blanc, planted six to seven years ago, reflects a desire to explore new expressions while remaining faithful to a clear identity.

Freshness and balance as a leitmotif

The estate’s stylistic signature is built on deliberate technical choices. “Zero malolactic fermentation,” insists Jamie Araujo, including for the reds, alongside very restrained use of oak. “Everything is within a fresh, digestible range.” Red wines favour more delicate profiles. “We lean more towards red fruits than black fruits,” he notes, offering an alternative to the riper, more powerful styles often associated with Napa Valley. The whites stand out for their tension and precision, with pure fruit expression and remarkable clarity.

A family-driven and committed identity

The name itself reflects the estate’s family roots. “Trois Noix refers to the three children in the family,” explains Jamie Araujo. This personal dimension is echoed in the domaine’s human-scale, hands-on approach.

Certified B Corp, the estate is also committed to responsible practices. “What interests me about wine is the way it creates connection,” he says, expressing a desire to share Napa and its wines with a broader international audience. Blending European influence, Californian precision and environmental commitment, Trois Noix offers a modern interpretation of Napa Valley, where elegance, freshness and balance redefine the contours of the region’s style.