Rutherford

Gravelly, loamy soils formed by the Napa River and a warm Mediterranean climate make Rutherford one of Napa’s most distinctive AVAs. Hot days and cool nights ensure ripe yet balanced fruit, while the legendary “Rutherford Dust” – an earthy, cocoa-like nuance described by winemaker André Tchelistcheff – gives its Cabernet Sauvignon a signature texture and complexity.

Rutherford’s vineyards trace back to the mid-19th century, when Napa pioneer George C. Yount gifted land to his son-in-law, Thomas Rutherford. Soon after, historic wineries like Inglenook and Beaulieu Vineyard cemented the region’s reputation, helping to establish Napa Valley as a global wine icon.

Cabernet Sauvignon dominates Rutherford, producing deep blackberry and cassis wines, layered with cedar, spice, and fine tannins. Revered for their structure and age-worthiness, these wines showcase why Rutherford remains one of Napa Valley’s most prestigious AVAs.