Merlot Rutherford Ranch Napa Valley 2018
Country
United States
Region
Napa Valley
Producer
Rutherford Ranch Winery
Grape(s)
Merlot (91.1%)
Petite Sirah (5.1%)
Malbec (2.5%)
Petit Verdot (1%)
Cabernet Sauvignon (0.3%)
Type
Red
Style
Robust
Oaked Style
Oaked
Body Style
Full bodied
Dry/Sweet Style
Not applicable
Alcohol Content
14.5%
Closure Style
Cork
Organic/Biodynamic
No
Sustainable
Yes-certified sustainable
Vegetarian/Vegan
Vegetarian
Yes
Vegan
Yes
Allergens
Sulphites
Yes
Milk
No
Egg
No
Region
The fog influenced Napa Valley is home to many of California’s premium wineries. This famous valley around the natural springs of Oakville, includes the thin strip of soil known as the Rutherford Bench where some of the state’s most highly prized vineyards are planted. It is where great Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay are grown and sublime Pinot Noirs from the southern Carneros end of the valley.
Producer
Rutherford Ranch Winery is located on Napa Valley’s historic Silverado Trail in one of the area’s most renowned sub-appellations. Certification by the California Sustainable Winegrowing Alliance is a testament to the family’s three generation commitment to sustainable, Earth-friendly wine growing and winemaking practices. Their portfolio of wines showcases the rich diversity of California’s premium growing regions. Sourced from appellations that include Napa Valley, Arroyo Seco, Lodi and the Central Coast, all wines are finished and bottled at the family’s Napa Valley winery.
Tasting Notes
This powerful Merlot makes quite the impression with luscious aromatic notes of cherry, sage and plum, layered with earthy flavours of black pepper, toasted oak and dark stone fruit. The wine spends 18 months in French and American oak for a delicious rich texture and oak notes of toast and sweet spice. The intense fruit is balanced by bright acidity and fine tannins for a supple and velvety mouthfeel.
Food
An ideal accompaniment to smoked baby back ribs, or with hearty pasta dishes and pizza.
