2019 Rutherford Estate Vineyard Merlot

Winemaking

In 2019, we experienced a very wet winter and spring, capturing 41 inches of rain at Dollarhide. A mild spring with one late-May rainfall resulted in damp soils and healthy canopy growth. Other than one mid-June heat spell, summer was warm and dry, allowing for consistent and balanced ripening. Late summer and early fall continued to provide steady warmth. As evenings began to cool, the fall growing season was extended. October became  quite cold, early. It was a good even ripening season with a mild summer resulting in excellent wine of great flavor and density.

Accolades

93 Points, James Suckling – “Aromas of crushed red and black cherries, ground spice and garden herbs. Full-bodied with velvety tannins. Inky, but not brooding, with subtle intensity and very good length. Nicely balanced.”

92 Points, Jeb Dunnuck – “The 2019 Merlot Rutherford Estate Vineyard comes all from Rutherford and is medium to full-bodied, and balanced, with juicy blueberry and cherry fruits, a kiss of spice and leafy herbs, nicely integrated acidity, and a clean finish. It’s another impeccably made wine from this team. The blend is 77% Merlot, 19% Cabernet Sauvignon, and the rest Petit Verdot. I’d be thrilled to drink a bottle.

92 Points, Wine Spectator – “Opens with a burst of succulent black cherry and then turns on the structure, layering in savory herb and toasty spice flavors that finish with refined tannins. Drink now through 2029. 1,250 cases made.

91 Points, the Wine Advocate – “The 2019 Merlot Rutherford is composed of 77% Merlot, 19% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 4% Petit Verdot. Deep garnet-purple in color, it bursts with expressive notes of juicy black plums, boysenberries, and spice cake, plus suggestions of star anise, cedar, and wild sage. The medium to full-bodied palate has a firm, grainy texture and compelling tension supporting the vibrant black fruits, finishing with a real skip in its step.”