What Makes Rutherford Wine So Unique?
An AVA—American Viticultural Area—is more than a marked region on a map; it’s a hidden voice in the landscape, waiting to be uncovered. Each AVA offers its own rhythm of sun, soil, and climate—shaping the fruit and the story it tells. At Out of Sight, we seek out the AVAs that speak in whispers, not headlines—distinct pockets of Napa Valley where bold character lies just beneath the surface, waiting to be revealed.
Cabernet Sauvignon from the valley floor of Rutherford is renowned for its balance of power and finesse—a hallmark of this storied Napa Valley AVA. Here, deep, well-drained alluvial soils and abundant sunshine yield wines with concentrated fruit, polished structure, and the signature “Rutherford Dust” tannins that lend a refined, earthy elegance. While rich and full-bodied, Rutherford Cabernet maintains an inherent grace—its tannins are firm yet silky, giving structure without harshness, and allowing the wine to age beautifully over time.
2023 Rutherford Cabernet Sauvignon
TASTING NOTES
The 2023 Rutherford Cabernet Sauvignon delivers a commanding presence from the first pour, with a dense core and broad shoulders that reflect the strength of this revered AVA. Dark, warm-toned fruit dominates the palate. Think black plum, mulberry, and fig, layered with notes of toasted oak and a subtle smokiness that adds complexity and intrigue. The wine’s signature Rutherford Dust tannins are on full display, offering a firm yet elegant structure that anchors its bold personality. Hints of spice and dark cocoa emerge through the finish, rounding out a Cabernet that is both powerful and poised. This vintage is a true expression of Rutherford’s character. Structured, deeply flavored, and built to leave a lasting impression.
VARIETAL
83% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8.5% Cabernet Franc, 5% Petit Verdot, 2.5% Merlot, 1% Malbec
MATURATION
1French oak barrels for 14 months
ALC/VOL
14.5%
Winemaking
Our Rutherford Cabernet Sauvignon is a pure expression of the valley floor’s famed terroir, where well-drained soils and warm days yield fruit of power and elegance. To preserve color vibrancy and enhance structure, the fruit undergoes a gentle cold soak before fermentation. Primary fermentation takes place in tank, with carefully managed pumpovers to extract richness, aromatics, and balance. A touch of Cabernet Franc is blended in, adding aromatic lift and textural nuance. Following fermentation, the wine is aged in both stainless steel and French oak barrels—an approach that preserves freshness while imparting subtle layers of spice and toast. The result is a Cabernet that is both grounded and graceful, marked by signature “Rutherford Dust” tannins, vivid dark fruit, and a refined, lingering finish.