Robert Parker Gives 2005 Rutherford Ranch Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon Outstanding Review

January 7, 2008 - Rutherford Ranch’s 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon is enjoying the spotlight recently thanks to praise from Mr. Robert Parker himself. The Wine Advocate critic and wine writer gives the affordable wine 87 points and writes “One of the great values in California Cabernet Sauvignon (believe me there are not many of them).” Parker also praises Rutherford Ranch Rhiannon, a proprietary Napa Valley red wine blend, along with the Rutherford Ranch Chardonnay. He finishes the review by stating, “All of these wines are amazing bargains.” The full review can be found in the December 31st issue of The Wine Advocate.

The reviewed 2005 Cabernet is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon (84%), Merlot (9%), Syrah (4%), and Cabernet Franc (3%). Situated on the Silverado Trail, the winery neighbors other acclaimed Cabernet producers such as Caymus, Quintessa, and Joseph Phelps. Sharing similar sourcing of complex and rich balanced fruit, Rutherford Ranch has a one up on its counterparts in terms of value. With a modest price point of $18 per 750 mL bottle, this Cabernet possesses the rich, Napa Valley terroir without the price tag. Parker writes “the wine exhibits a deep ruby color as well as a sweet nose of red and black currents, spice box, and cedar. Richly fruity, with silky tannin, and a lush finish…”

Winemaker Steve Rued joined Rutherford Ranch in 2005 with more than 10 years of experience winemaking. After two stints at Kenwood Vineyards in Sonoma and one at Stellenbosch Farmer’s Winery in South Africa, the native California winemaker, with a superior talent for blending, found himself at home amongst Rutherford Ranch and its owners, the Zaninovich family. The Zaninovichs, a viticulturally proud family, owns vineyards throughout California, making them one of the largest grape growing families in the state. “Our focus has always been to produce value-driven wines without sacrificing quality,” says General Manager Morgan Zaninovich. “We’re proud to deliver a rich, approachable Napa Valley Cabernet like the 2005 vintage that is accompanied by an affordable price tag for a premium wine.”

Several of Rutherford Ranch Napa Valley wines have been enjoying top press accolades recently. The winery’s 2005 Zinfandel received an impressive 90 points from Wine Enthusiast. The 2005 Rhiannon, a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon (64%), Merlot (29%), Syrah (5%), and Petite Sirah (2%), was recently featured in Quarterly Review of Wines as a “Really Good Buy” with a modest price of $28 per 750 mL bottle. In addition, the 2006 Sauvignon Blanc was honored with 94 points by justwinepoints.com.
The Zaninovich family acquired Rutherford Ranch in 2000 and has focused on crafting varietally distinct wines with vibrant aromas and full-bodied flavors. The 2005 vintage Cabernet Sauvignon is sold worldwide and can be found in restaurants across the U.S. through an existing distribution network. The Rutherford Wine Company includes the following brands; Rutherford Ranch, Round Hill, Grand Pacific, and Scott Family Estate. The portfolio of Rutherford Wine Company is available for purchase online at www.rutherfordwine.com.

Editors contact Kimberly Charles of Charles Communications Associates at kcharles@charlescomm.com or Amelia Weir at (415) 701 9463 or amelia@charlescomm.com. Photos are available upon request.