Frequently Asked Questions
Indulge in the luxurious allure of Rutherford Hill Cabernet Sauvignon, a standout from Napa Valley's iconic wine region. This full-bodied red wine captivates with complex aromas of black currant, blackberry, and cassis, complemented by notes of savory herbs, anise, and subtle baking spices. Crafted from a blend of predominantly Cabernet Sauvignon with touches of Cabernet Franc and Petite Verdot, this wine is aged for 20 months in French oak, adding layers of toffee, mocha, and spearmint to its rich flavor profile. Silky tannins and a smooth, lingering finish make it a perfect pairing for grilled meats, hearty stews, or aged cheeses. Whether celebrating a special occasion or enhancing a quiet evening, this decadent Cabernet delivers sophistication in every sip.
Process & Profile
Rutherford Hill Cabernet Sauvignon is a masterful expression of Napa Valley's premium winemaking tradition. Grapes for this Cabernet are sourced from some of the finest vineyards in the region, benefiting from the valley's unique microclimate and rich soils. The wine undergoes meticulous vinification, including stainless steel fermentation with daily pump-overs to enhance flavor extraction. It is then carefully aged in French oak barrels, often within natural cave systems, for up to 15-20 months. This process imparts complexity, balance, and a signature refinement to the final product. The result is a luxurious Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon that embodies Rutherford Hill's commitment to quality and craftsmanship. The classic Bordeaux varietal thrives in this terroir, producing wines that balance elegance, structure, and depth.Tasting Notes
Rutherford Hill Cabernet Sauvignon greets the senses with a complex aromatic bouquet. Expect enticing notes of ripe dark fruits such as blackberries, black currants, and blueberries, layered with subtle accents of cassis, savory herbs, cocoa, and anise. On the palate, the wine unfolds with rich flavors of dark cherries, pomegranate, and cranberry, complemented by a touch of mocha and baking spices. It boasts a full-bodied structure, lush texture, supple tannins, and a velvety finish characterized by hints of cocoa, cedar, and spice.What Makes It Special
Rutherford Hill's dedication to tradition and innovation sets this wine apart. The winery, perched in the Eastern Hills of Napa Valley, utilizes hillside and valley floor vineyards to capture the diverse characteristics of the region's terroir. Their careful cave aging system provides optimal temperature and humidity for maturing wines, ensuring a silky, polished profile. Furthermore, wines like the AJT Collection honor Anthony J. Terlato's legacy, blending modern techniques with classic Napa stylings for a truly unique offering.How to Enjoy
This Cabernet Sauvignon is a versatile wine that shines on various occasions. Serve it slightly below room temperature, around 60-65°F (16-18°C), to showcase its aromatic complexity and full flavors. Decanting the wine for 30 minutes before serving is recommended to allow the aromas and tannins to fully develop. Pair it with hearty dishes such as roast lamb, grilled steak, or beef tenderloin. It also accompanies rich mushroom-based dishes and aged cheeses gracefully. For a luxurious pairing, try it alongside dark chocolate desserts, which complement its mocha and berry notes perfectly. Explore Rutherford Hill Cabernet Sauvignon and savor the bold, intricate essence of Napa Valley encapsulated in every bottle. Perfect for collectors and wine enthusiasts, this wine is a testament to Rutherford Hill's legacy of elegance and excellence.Frequently Asked Questions
What are the tasting notes of Rutherford Hill Cabernet Sauvignon?
This Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon delivers complex aromas of dark fruits such as black currant, blackberries, and blueberries, complemented by notes of cassis, savory herbs, anise, and baking spices. On the palate, expect flavors of dark cherry and cranberry with a hint of cocoa and baking spices, offering a supple, round, and smooth finish with rich tannins.
What is the blend composition of Rutherford Hill Cabernet Sauvignon?
The Rutherford Hill AJT Collection Cabernet Sauvignon is a blend of 95% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Cabernet Franc, and 2% Petite Verdot. This blend enhances the wine's structure, flavor intensity, and aromatic complexity.
How is Rutherford Hill Cabernet Sauvignon aged?
The wine is aged for 20 months in French oak barrels, 40% of which are new. This aging process imparts layers of toffee, mocha, and a subtle woody character while softening the tannins for a silky texture.
What is the recommended drinking window for Rutherford Hill Cabernet Sauvignon?
The wine is best enjoyed between 2024 and 2034. Its robust structure and balanced acidity make it suitable for aging, allowing the flavors to develop further over time.
What food pairs best with Rutherford Hill Cabernet Sauvignon?
This full-bodied Cabernet pairs exceptionally well with rich dishes, including grilled steak, lamb chops, and hearty stews. Its bold flavors and tannins also complement aged cheeses and dark, savory sauces.
Is Rutherford Hill Cabernet Sauvignon dry or sweet?
This wine is categorized as a dry wine, meaning it contains little to no residual sugar. Its dryness is balanced with medium-to-high tannins and vibrant acidity, making it bold and structured.
What makes Rutherford Hill Cabernet Sauvignon special?
Rutherford Hill draws its grapes from the Rutherford region in Napa Valley, home to the renowned "Rutherford Dust" terroir. This unique soil gives the wine an exquisite sense of place, with earthy nuances and a structured, elegant profile.
What is the alcohol content of the Rutherford Hill Cabernet Sauvignon?
The alcohol content is 12%, which is slightly lower than the average for most Cabernet Sauvignon wines, providing a balanced and approachable drinking experience.
What is the history of Rutherford Hill Winery?
Rutherford Hill Winery, founded in 1972, is one of Napa Valley's historic wineries. Known as a pioneer in California Merlot production, the winery also excels in crafting Cabernet Sauvignon, blending innovative winemaking techniques with traditional methods.
Does Rutherford Hill Cabernet Sauvignon age well?
Yes, its robust tannins and balanced acidity make it ideal for aging. Properly stored, it can evolve for 10 years or more, developing complex flavors of leather, tobacco, and dried fruits over time.
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