91
points
Rutherford Ranch 2005 Abela Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon (Rutherford)
-
$75
An enormously rich, compelling but young, Cabernet. Really impresses for its sour cherry and blackberry candy flavors, and the sophisticated layering of smoky, vanilla-scented oak. Feels ultrarefined, but also quite tannic. Needs time. Better after 2013, with proper storage.
— S.H.
(10/1/2010)
91
points
Rutherford Ranch 1999 Stagecoach-Krupp Vineyards Limited Release Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon (Napa Valley)
-
$35
There’s plenty of concentrated Cabernet fruit to stand up to the smoky oak in this delicious new wine. It has ripe flavors of blackcurrants, cherries, herbs and chocolate, toned up with ripe, sweet tannins that turn gritty on the finish. Tastes like an ager, but it’s awfully nice right now.
— S.H.
(5/1/2004)
90
points
Rutherford Ranch 2005 Zinfandel (Napa Valley)
-
$17
Good, rich Zinfandel that brings a Napa elegance and sophistication to the variety’s wild and woolly personality. The briary, brambly thing is all here, with wild berry, cocoa, nutmeg, cinnamon and pepper flavors, and the exuberance is distinctively Zinny, but the wine has the body and balance of a fine Merlot.
— S.H.
(11/1/2007)