Beaulieu Vineyard BV Cabernet Sauvignon Rutherford Reserve 2018
(Rutherford, Napa Valley, California) - [JS 96] [VM 94] [JD 94] [WE 94]

Rutherford is the heart of Napa Valley and home to Beaulieu Vineyard. For more than 20 years, our winemakers have crafted our Cabernet Sauvignon, which defines the unique expression of our Rutherford vineyards with rich dark berry and cocoa, accented by well-integrated oak spices for a long finish.

Notes from the Winemaker:
This inaugural 2018 Rutherford Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon is the epitome of the finest expression of our western Rutherford bench-land terroir, exhibiting an intense saturation of color, aromas and flavors. The expressive perfumed bouquet leaps from the glass with exuberant dark berry fruits. Notes of blackberry, black currant, black forest cake and Crème de cassis sit alongside floral violet, rose petal, rosemary and bay laurel, while lifted baking spice notes from the well-integrated oak barrel character, shows nuances of cedar, cinnamon, clove and caramel. On the palate, there is juicy, saturated black cherry, macerated red raspberry, supported by darker hints of espresso, mocha and bittersweet chocolate. The structured “Rutherford dust” tannins are full of grip and plushness, showcasing the signature cocoa powder texture and expansive mouthfeel. Rich, with depth and balance, leading to a generous velvety-smooth textured persistent finish, showing concentration and refinement. A classic example of the very best from the Rutherford appellation.

Blend: 90% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Malbec and 4% Petit Verdot

Oak Treatment: 21 months in 100% French oak (80% new barrels)