We produce wines from specific American Viticultural Areas (AVA) to celebrate the unique terroir of Napa Valley, and Rutherford is particularly special to us. Although we don’t reside there, our winemaker, Kirk Venge, grew up in Rutherford and has an intimate knowledge of the land. From childhood adventures of riding mountain bikes through vineyards to making exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon from the rich soil, Kirk has a deep-rooted history in Rutherford, and Rutherford holds a significant place in the history of Napa Valley.

Rutherford is situated in the widest area of this fertile valley, sitting just to the warmer side of the valley’s climate seesaw between the cooler maritime influence of the San Pablo Bay and the hot, dry influence of the California inland valleys, an area known as the Rutherford Bench. This serendipitous combination of soil and climate eventually culminated in the wines that would define and influence the Rutherford style – elegance coupled with distinctively grainy tannins, which are commonly associated with the term “Rutherford Dust.” In 1941, Georges de Latour released his 1936 Private Reserve from Rutherford, which brought the region to international recognition. It was the first Napa Valley wine to be considered a premier-cru level bottling, paving the way for Napa Valley to specialize in Bordeaux-style wines.

2022 Rutherford Cabernet Sauvignon

“Big, bold, and dusty – Rutherford at its finest. Initial aromas of dark fruits, vanillin, and earth predominate, while sensations of cracked red peppercorns and violets evolve in the glass. Notable tannins, exceptional balance, and a pronounced texture make this wine both enjoyable now and perfect to cellar“

Star Vineyard sits in the heart of the Rutherford wine-growing appellation, between Highway 29 and Silverado Trail on the upper Rutherford bench. Founded in 1987 by Reg B. Oliver and well-known Napa Valley winemaker Ric Forman planted the vineyard using the time-honored method of planting known as “selection massale” using pruning cuts from a neighbor’s vineyard. Reg’s wife, Marie, declared “A Star is Born” serendipitously naming the vineyard.

This sustainably farmed vineyard is currently managed and operated by Reg Oliver’s son, Jack. Vintage after vintage, the Star Vineyard in Rutherford proves itself to be one of the premier sources of Cabernet Sauvignon in a region made famous by the varietal.

2022 Star Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon

“A nose of wet stone and fresh strawberries are followed by forest floor, warm cassis, and dried cranberries. The palate is expansive with bright rhubarb, blackberry, fresh cherries, espresso roast, and spice box. The bright fruit is supported by beautifully ripe, velvety tannins and a fantastic freshness, with a long finish”

2022 Star Vineyard Chardonnay

2021 Rutherford Cabernet Sauvignon

2021 Star Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon

2022 Beckstoffer Georges III Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon