RUTHERFORD AVA WINES

Nestled in the heart of Napa Valley, Rutherford is a name that resonates with wine enthusiasts and connoisseurs worldwide. This small yet iconic appellation is synonymous with exceptional wines, renowned for their distinct character and unparalleled quality. Whether you’re exploring Napa Valley or delving into the intricacies of wine production, Rutherford stands out as a region steeped in tradition, innovation, and the timeless allure of fine wine.

History of Rutherford AVA

Rutherford’s rich history dates back to the mid-19th century when early settlers recognized the region’s unique potential for viticulture. Founded by Thomas Rutherford in 1850, the area quickly became known for its fertile soil and favorable climate, ideal for cultivating premium grapes. The establishment of Rutherford as a key wine-producing region was further cemented in the late 1800s when pioneering winemakers like George C. Yount and Gustave Niebaum began producing wines that would eventually garner international acclaim.

Today, Rutherford is celebrated not only for its historical significance but also for its ongoing contributions to the world of wine. The region’s legacy is upheld by a community of dedicated vintners who continue to honor the traditions of the past while embracing modern techniques to produce wines that are both timeless and innovative.

What Makes Wines from Rutherford Special

The wines of Rutherford are distinguished by their unique terroir, a term that encompasses the region’s soil, climate, and topography. The Rutherford AVA (American Viticultural Area) is characterized by well-drained, gravelly loam soils, which contribute to the distinctive “Rutherford Dust” quality found in many of the area’s wines. This term, coined by the late winemaker André Tchelistcheff, refers to the earthy, cocoa-powder texture that is a hallmark of Rutherford’s Cabernet Sauvignons.

Rutherford’s climate also plays a crucial role in shaping the character of its wines. The region enjoys warm days and cool nights, allowing grapes to ripen fully while retaining their acidity. This balance results in wines that are rich, complex, and elegant, with a remarkable ability to age gracefully over time.

While Cabernet Sauvignon is the star of the Rutherford AVA, the region also produces exceptional Merlot, Sauvignon Blanc, and Chardonnay. Each varietal is crafted with meticulous care, reflecting the unique characteristics of the Rutherford terroir.

If Rutherford AVA wines were to pair with any author…

They would pair with Ernest Hemingway.

Our celebrated American-born writer developed an old-world sensibility and spent his career achieving depth by writing simply. His stories have truly stood the test of time, and this is what reminds us most of our Rutherford wines.

Handwritten Wines Cabernet Sauvignon, Rutherford

This ultra-classic expression of Rutherford Cabernet has all the hallmarks of this heralded AVA: dust on the nose with rich and ripe fruit that is generous on the palate and lingers to a long finish. Sourced from atop ‘the bench’ with its famed alluvial soils, this big and juicy red is sure to please on any occasion.

Deep ripe cherry interplays with crushed rose petals while the background presence of ‘Rutherford Dust’ pervades the nose. Once on the palate, the wine is a bit darker with notes of cola and blackberry that lift the elegant touch of oak and vanilla. Only here in the heart of Napa, where the soils turn red with iron rich clays, we find a wine that speaks to the understated luxury that this valley embodies so well.

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