The beginning of the 2019 growing season was defined by copious rainfall and late soil moisture. The long, warm summer saw very few extreme heat events, with foggy mornings setting the stage for vibrant and expressive wines. The long, relatively mild finish to the season, not without its moments of unpredictability, helped to preserve freshness and finesse in the fruit with abundant hang time teasing out great color, structure and soft tannins. Volume is looking to be about average to a little less than average. All in all, exceptional fruit with bright acidity and ample texture promises an amazing vintage.

The fruit for the Extended Barrel-aged Cabernet hails from the Whitehall Vineyard, situated on the west side of Rutherford right off of Whitehall Lane. This prime location places it amongst some of Napa Valley’s most renowned properties. Nestled in the heart of Rutherford, the vineyard benefits from the region’s unique terroir—famous for its “Rutherford Dust” that adds an earthy, complex layer to the wine. Being surrounded by some of the valley’s most prestigious vineyards, the site ensures our wine exemplifies the rich, structured profile for which Rutherford is celebrated.

Our Extended Barrel Aged Cabernet takes the classic Rutherford Cabernet Sauvignon experience and gives it a little extra time to shine—think of it as a wine that got lost in the cellar and came out better for it. Left in oak for a generous 36 months (maybe a touch longer than we initially planned—oops!), this happy twist of fate delivers a bold, layered profile. You’ll find lush raspberry compote mingling with notes of Arabica coffee, plus hearty notes of cedar, sweet tobacco and dark chocolate, all wrapped in a richness that only time can unlock.