Since 1984, this outstanding vineyard has been part of the Heitz estate and produces one of our three, single-vineyard cabernet sauvignons. Nestled between Silverado Trail and Conn Creek on the fertile, eastern side of the Rutherford appellation, only the best blocks are selected for this terroir-driven cabernet sauvignon.

The five-year drought was relieved over the winter, with abundant rainfall followed by a mild spring. An even summer with normal temperatures allowed for healthy vines with even growth and full veraison. The growing season turned hot in early September, accelerating harvest into high gear, with no cooling-off period.

A tapestry of sixteen blocks of cabernet sauvignon, planted with seven different clones, in layers of eight different soil types covering eighty five acres; our magical Trailside Vineyard is the quintessential expression of the Rutherford terroir.

“The alluvial soil combined with a gradual slope towards Conn Creek makes this site ‘textbook perfect’ for growing Cabernet Sauvignon. We have planted the vines on an east-west orientation to evenly ripen the fruit throughout the day with dappled, gentle sunlight, resulting in small berries and ultimately, a smooth and concentrated wine.” – Brittany Sherwood, Winemaker