Rutherford

Rutherford Wineries have been pivotal in bringing international accolades and respect to the Valley. The famed Rutherford Bench in the western foothills contains a who's who of many of the best wineries in the state.

Rutherford Wine Country

Rutherford wineries produce some of the best red wines in the world. Rutherford’s warm climate and well-drained soils makes it perfect for growing the traditional red Bordeaux varietals (Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Petit Verdot). Rutherford Wine Country is also a very popular and convenient destination for wine tours.

Rutherford Wine is produced in a very similar climate as its neighbors. However, there are differences; Rutherford Wine Country is slightly warmer and local Cabernet Sauvignon tends to be a bit earthier and often requires more time in the bottle to fully develop. This is one of the main aspects that put Rutherford Wineries in a class by themselves.

Near the valley walls, Rutherford terrain is composed of deep, well-drained soils. Known as the Rutherford Bench, this area produces complex wines with balanced tannins and earthy fruit. Rutherford Wine Country extends 400 feet into the hills.

Thomas Rutherford planted the first local grapes during the mid-19th century, thus beginning the history of Rutherford Wineries. He also gave the region its name. Part of Thomas Rutherford’s original land is now owned by Provenance Vineyards.

Popular Rutherford Wineries

Related Articles

RSS Feed -->Latest News – Rutherford

Feb 28, 2007

Grgich Hills Commemorated with Watercolor

Rutherford's Grgich Hills celebrates its 30th anniversary.
Feb 28, 2007

Beaulieu Vineyard Releases 2002 Reserve Collection

Rutherford's Beaulieu Vineyard releases 2002 Reserve Collection.
Feb 03, 2007

New Record Set at Napa Valley Auction

History was made at the 2006 Napa Valley Auction when the Staglin Family lot went for a record $1.05 million.
Dec 19, 2006

Cakebread Cellars to Release Zinfandel after a 10 Year Hiatus

Cakebread Cellars has had an on-again, off-again love affair with Zinfandel. They stopped Zin production in 1994, only to resume this year, releasing their 2004 Red Hills Zinfandel at the 16th annual Zinfandel festival Jan 24th – 27th in San Francisco, Ca.
Dec 19, 2006

Quintessa Releases 2003 Vintage

Sept 1st, 2006 – Qunitessa Winery in Rutherford released its 10th vintage.

Recent Discussion – Rutherford

  1. klutch said:

    It's best to get out there more often and try them out! Gives you more of a reason to visit Napa!

    Posted 335 days ago.

  2. cheryl said:

    I AM NOT AN EXPERT ON WINES , BUT WANT AS MUCH INFORMATION AS I CAN RECEIVE SO I CAN BE BETTER INFORMED ON DIFFERENT WINE AND WINERY'S --ALL THE HELP WOULD BE GREATLY APPRECIATED.

    Posted 361 days ago.

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Ben Bicais Hello, my name is Ben Bicais, and I would like to personally welcome you to Calwineries. Growing up in the Napa Valley... Find out more.

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