|
The Rutherford AVA (American Viticultural Area) lies in the northern part of California's Napa Valley. It is a warm, dry region which receives plenty of sunshine. Because it is further north than most of the Napa Valley sub-appellations, the AVA is less affected by the cooling winds and fog generated by San Pablo Bay to the south.
Rutherford is arguably the most internationally celebrated Napa Valley AVA, well known for producing red wines of the highest quality. Cabernet Sauvignon is the most widely planted grape here. The warmer climate encourages earthy flavors and riper tannins which, with time, can result in magnificent wines.
Deep, well-drained, sandy loam soils throughout the region also suit the other traditional red Bordeaux varietals: Merlot, Malbec, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot.
|