2019 RUTHERFORD CABERNET SAUVIGNON
TASTING NOTES
This Cabernet Sauvignon opens with beautiful aromas of black fruit and cassis layered upon notes of floral violet and sweet oak spices. On the palate, this full-bodied silky wine has flavors of blackberries, dark plum, espresso with hints of anise seed and textured with fine-grained tannins that build on the palate. This wine is incredibly elegant and balanced, with vibrant acidity, depth and freshness on the finish.
PRODUCTION NOTES
The Rutherford AVA comprises six square miles, bordered on the east by the Vaca Mountains and the west by Mount St. John. Its 6,840 acres are planted primarily to Cabernet Sauvignon, for which the area has been renowned since 1939 when Georges de Latour won a gold medal at the Golden Gate International Exposition for his 1936 Beaulieu Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon.
Rutherford has a higher radiant value than other parts of Napa Value as this AVA is located at the widest point in Napa Valley and spends more time in the sun. The 2019 was near perfect growing season with a warm, lingering summer followed by a cooling trend, allowing the fruit to ripen at a steady pace and have a longer time on the vines.
The clusters were pre-sorted at the vineyard, destemmed prior to mechanical sorting, followed by berry-by-berry sorting by a crew of six. The must was then cold soaked for 5-6 days, followed by fermentation in stainless steel and extended maceration. This wine was aged for 18 months in a variety of new and once-used high-end French oak barrels.