Rutherford

Overview

Rutherford is a small but prestigious AVA in the heart of Napa Valley. Its well-drained alluvial benchland soils, gravelly fans, and volcanic deposits are said to impart a signature dusty tannin profile known as Rutherford Dust. The climate is warm but moderated by afternoon breezes, providing a long, even growing season ideal for Cabernet Sauvignon.

Cabernet Sauvignon dominates, producing wines of cassis, black cherry, tobacco, and earthy graphite with firm yet fine tannins. Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Sauvignon Blanc, and Chardonnay are also grown. Many of Napa's most historic and collectible wineries trace their origins to Rutherford.

Key Varietals

• Cabernet SauvignonThe defining grape, giving structured wines with cassis, tobacco, and signature dusty tannins.
• MerlotA supple red adding plum, cocoa, and mid-palate richness to Rutherford blends.
• Cabernet FrancA minority red contributing red berry, herb, and perfume to premium blends.
• Sauvignon BlancA crisp white with citrus, grass, and mineral notes from gravelly soils.