Frequently Asked Questions
The Frog's Leap 'Estate' Cabernet Sauvignon Rutherford captures the essence of Napa Valley's iconic Rutherford terroir. This certified organic and dry-farmed wine showcases deep cassis and blackcurrant aromas, complemented by earthy notes of cedar, black olive, and the signature "Rutherford Dust." Crafted with meticulous care, the blend features Cabernet Sauvignon with a touch of Cabernet Franc, offering a velvety, plush mouthfeel with bright acidity and fine-grained tannins. Aged in French oak, it develops complexity and elegance, making it an ideal pairing for grilled meats or savory dishes. A true expression of Rutherford heritage, this wine is a must-try for lovers of refined, terroir-driven Cabernet Sauvignon.
Process & Profile
Frog's Leap Winery crafts its 'Estate' Cabernet Sauvignon with a dedication to organic farming, dry farming, and minimal intervention winemaking. Sourced exclusively from estate vineyards in the prestigious Rutherford appellation, this wine embodies the iconic "Rutherford Dust" terroir, renowned for its well-drained, gravelly soils and optimal ripening conditions. The blend typically features Cabernet Sauvignon with a touch of Cabernet Franc, which enhances complexity and aromatic depth. Aged in mostly neutral French oak barrels for around 20 months, the wine achieves elegance and balance, reflecting Frog's Leap's philosophy of restraint and respect for the land.Tasting Notes
Immerse yourself in the rich and layered profile of this world-class Cabernet Sauvignon:- Nose: Aromas of cassis, black currant, dried sage, and graphite, with hints of dried flowers, tobacco, and mocha.
- Palate: Flavors of ripe black fruit, red cherries, and plum are complemented by savory notes of cedar, earth, and black olive. The fine-grained tannins and bright acidity deliver a vibrant, plush mouthfeel.
- Finish: A long, lingering finish characterized by tension between herbal and fruit flavors, reminiscent of rough velvet, with the hallmark "Rutherford Dust" tying it all together.
What Makes It Special
- Terroir-Driven Excellence: The wine represents the pinnacle of Rutherford AVA's expressive terroir, capturing the essence of its unique microclimate and soils.
- Sustainability: Certified organic and dry-farmed vineyards underscore Frog's Leap's commitment to environmentally responsible winemaking.
- Heritage Craftsmanship: Inspired by historic Napa Valley winemaking traditions, this Cabernet Sauvignon is a nod to classic Rutherford Cabs with a modern, balanced touch.
- Critical Acclaim: It consistently garners high scores from esteemed wine critics for its elegance, purity, and ability to age gracefully.
How to Enjoy
- Pairing Options: The wine's robust structure and savory complexity make it perfect for pairing with hearty dishes such as grilled beef, lamb chops, wild mushrooms, or risotto. For a vegetarian twist, try it with roasted vegetables or lentil stew.
- Serving Suggestions: Decant the wine for 30-60 minutes to let it fully open up before serving. Best enjoyed at a temperature of 60-65°F (15-18°C) in a Bordeaux glass to highlight its aromas and texture.
- Aging Potential: This Cabernet Sauvignon showcases ample aging potential, rewarding cellaring for 10-15 years or longer, as it develops greater complexity and nuance with time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main tasting notes of Frog's Leap 'Estate' Cabernet Sauvignon?
This wine showcases a complex blend of flavors, including black fruit such as black currant and blackberry, complemented by savory herbs, mocha, graphite, cedar, and subtle earthy tones. The wine's balance of aromas and flavors reflects the unique terroir of Rutherford.
What is unique about the terroir of Rutherford, and how does it influence the wine?
Rutherford is renowned for its "Rutherford Dust" characteristic—a combination of fine, dusty tannins that impart a velvety texture to the wine. The region's gravelly, well-drained soils and balanced climate of warm days and cool nights allow Cabernet Sauvignon grapes to develop intense flavors and a smooth structure, making wines from this area both elegant and age-worthy.
What makes Frog's Leap 'Estate' Cabernet Sauvignon sustainable?
Frog's Leap practices certified organic and sustainable farming methods. The winery emphasizes soil health, dry farming techniques, and minimal intervention to ensure both environmental stewardship and the production of high-quality wines.
How should I pair Frog's Leap 'Estate' Cabernet Sauvignon?
This full-bodied and structured Cabernet Sauvignon pairs beautifully with hearty dishes like grilled steaks, braised lamb, or mushroom risotto. It also makes an excellent standalone wine to savor slowly.
Can this wine be aged? If so, for how long?
Yes, this wine is suitable for aging. Like other well-crafted Cabernet Sauvignons from Rutherford, it benefits from time in the bottle, with an aging potential of 7-10 years or more. Over time, its tannins soften, and the flavors develop greater complexity.
What is the alcohol content of the wine?
Frog's Leap 'Estate' Cabernet Sauvignon typically has an alcohol by volume (ABV) of around 13.5%-15%, consistent with high-quality Cabernet Sauvignons from Napa Valley.
What is "Rutherford Dust"?
"Rutherford Dust" refers to the signature tannin texture and flavor profile found in Rutherford wines. It is characterized by smooth, velvety tannins and delicate earthy notes, giving the wine a unique depth and elegance.
Does Frog's Leap use oak barrels for aging their Cabernet Sauvignon?
Yes, the wine undergoes oak aging, which enhances its complexity. Oak barrels impart subtle hints of vanilla, spice, and toast, complementing the wine's fruit, herbal, and earthy flavors while softening its tannins.
Is the wine produced as a single varietal or a blend?
While primarily Cabernet Sauvignon, Frog's Leap includes small amounts of Cabernet Franc in the blend. This addition enhances the aromatic profile and adds depth and dimension to the wine's structure, a hallmark of Frog's Leap's winemaking.
Where can I purchase Frog's Leap 'Estate' Cabernet Sauvignon?
Frog's Leap wines can be purchased directly through their winery or at select wine retailers. For availability and specific locations, contact Frog's Leap or consult your local wine shop.
Unfortunately, we're unable to ship to PO Boxes and APO addresses.
Adult signature (21+) required upon delivery.
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