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Rutherford

Rutherford is a prestigious subregion located in the heart of Napa Valley, California, known for its distinctive dusty tannins referred to as 'Rutherford dust' and optimal growing conditions for Cabernet Sauvignon. The terroir features well-draining gravel-loam soils, moderate temperatures with cooling fog influence from San Pablo Bay, and a unique microclimate that creates bold, structured red wines with exceptional aging potential. While Cabernet Sauvignon dominates the plantings, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Sauvignon Blanc also thrive in this appellation home to iconic estates like Beaulieu Vineyard and Inglenook.

Region
California
Wines
1

Wines from Rutherford

F

Frog's Leap Zinfandel Napa Valley

Frog's Leap

Red

Frog's Leap Zinfandel is the antithesis of the overripe, high-alcohol style that has dominated California Zin for too long. Instead, winemaker John Williams crafts a balanced, food-friendly version that captures the variety's charm without the headache-inducing power. Frog's Leap has been farming organically in Napa since the 1980s, long before it was fashionable, and their commitment to sustainable practices shines through in the bottle. This Zinfandel showcases the variety's natural affinity for Napa's climate while maintaining an old-world sensibility about balance and restraint. It's the rare Zin that can please both California wine lovers and European wine purists – no small feat in today's polarized wine world.