Rutherford Ranch is located in America's most famous and iconic wine region: Napa Valley, often called the Bordeaux of America. Napa Valley is located in California, about an hour's drive north of San Francisco. Certification by the California Sustainable Winegrowing Alliance is a testament to the family's three-generation dedication to sustainable, earth-friendly viticulture and winemaking. Family-owned and managed by Rutherford Wine Company, the estate offers a portfolio of wines that showcase the rich diversity of California's premier growing regions.
The winery is named after the sub-region where it is located. Located in the heart of Napa Valley, the Rutherford District is known as one of the region's finest, oldest, and first planted areas. The Rutherford Company was founded in 1978 by the Zaninovic family. The third generation is now at the helm. The company is committed to 100 percent sustainable viticulture.
This Napa Valley Chardonnay was fermented in a combination of temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks and French oak barrels. The stainless steel fermentation process allows Rutherford to preserve the natural, lush flavors and aromatic qualities of the fruit. The French oak barrel then imparts richness and a creamy texture to the palate, creating a complex yet elegantly balanced Chardonnay.
On the nose, this Rutherford Ranch Chardonnay has notes of baked apple pie with toasted oak and hints of caramel and spice. The palate has a fruity start, including ripe pears, dried apricots, and white peaches. A full-bodied wine with soft acidity, oaky notes, and abundant vanilla notes. It finishes with a hint of lemon meringue pie.
