2021 RUTHERFORD HILL Cabernet Sauvignon
AJT Collection ~ Napa Valley

$58.00

90
WA

Experience the power and elegance of Napa Valley with the 2021 Rutherford Hill Cabernet Sauvignon AJT Collection. Limited production, rich black fruit, and a nod to Terlato’s legacy. Secure your bottle for a taste of Rutherford’s finest.
Volume: 750 ML | 14.7% ABV

36 in stock

James Suckling – 90 Points

Dark berries, currants, grilled herbs, earth and asphalt on the nose. Full body with firm tannins. Chewy and structured with a mellow texture at the center and a grippy finish. Try after 2024. —James Suckling | jamessuckling.com

Description

The 2021 Rutherford Hill Cabernet Sauvignon AJT Collection stands as a distinguished embodiment of Rutherford Hill’s winemaking prowess, showcasing the unparalleled terroir of Napa Valley’s Rutherford region. Crafted with meticulous attention, this vintage pays homage to the late Anthony John Terlato, a visionary in the wine industry.

In the glass, the wine unveils a deep, inky hue, foreshadowing the richness within. The nose is greeted by an aromatic tapestry of black currants, ripe blackberries, and a subtle essence of violet. The judicious use of French oak barrels during aging contributes nuanced notes of vanilla, baking spices, and a touch of cedar, enhancing the wine’s complexity.

On the palate, the 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon AJT Collection unfolds with layers of flavor. Bold black fruit, such as cassis and plum, takes center stage, supported by well-structured tannins that provide a robust backbone. The wine’s opulence is tempered by a bright acidity, ensuring a harmonious balance that lingers through the finish.

The AJT Collection is a limited-production offering, a testament to Rutherford Hill’s dedication to excellence. Sourced from select vineyard blocks in Rutherford, the fruit is carefully handpicked to ensure optimal ripeness and expression. This Cabernet Sauvignon epitomizes the power and elegance characteristic of Rutherford, making it a noteworthy addition to Napa Valley’s esteemed lineup of wines. With its specific vintage characteristics and a nod to Terlato’s legacy, the 2021 Rutherford Hill Cabernet Sauvignon AJT Collection is an invitation to savor the distinctive flavors that define this iconic Napa Valley appellation.

Established in 1976 on the sun-drenched slopes of Napa Valley’s Rutherford region, Rutherford Hill Winery has emerged as a stalwart in the tapestry of California winemaking. Founded by the Terlato family, visionaries in the industry, the winery embarked on a mission to craft wines that capture the essence of the iconic Rutherford AVA.

From its inception, Rutherford Hill focused on the Bordeaux varietals—Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc—finding ideal conditions in the gravelly soils and warm climate of the Rutherford Bench. The winery’s commitment to quality and tradition is epitomized in their dedication to crafting age-worthy, structured wines that showcase the unique characteristics of the terroir.

Rutherford Hill Winery’s acclaim soared with its innovative approach to winemaking, particularly with the use of French oak barrels and the implementation of traditional techniques. The wines, marked by a harmonious balance of fruit and tannins, have garnered widespread recognition, contributing to the winery’s status as a standard-bearer for Rutherford’s viticultural excellence.

Over the years, Rutherford Hill has become a destination for wine enthusiasts, offering not only exceptional wines but also a picturesque setting with panoramic views of the Napa Valley. The winery’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its vineyard practices, emphasizing environmental stewardship.

Under the ongoing stewardship of the Terlato family, Rutherford Hill Winery continues to craft wines that honor the legacy of Rutherford, capturing the spirit of the land and the artistry of Napa Valley winemaking. With each vintage, Rutherford Hill stands as a testament to the enduring commitment to quality and the celebration of Rutherford’s unique terroir.

Professional Reviewer

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The Wine Advocaterobertparker.com WA
Wine Spectatorwinespectator.com WS
James Sucklingjamessuckling.com JS
Wine Enthusiastwinemag.com WE
The Wine Independentthewineindependent.com TWI
Allen Meadows —Burghoundburghound.com BH
Connoisseur’s Guide to California Winecgcw.com CGCW
Wine & Spiritswineandspiritsmagazine.com W&S
The Tasting Paneltastingpanelmag.com TP
Antonio Galloni —Vinous Mediavinous.com VM
Jancis Robinsonjancisrobinson.com JR
Stephen TanzerInternational Wine Cellar — IWC
Jeb Dunnuckjebdunnuck.com JD
Decanter Magazinedecanter.com D
Jane Anson —Inside Bordeauxjaneanson.com JA

Expert Wine Reviews & Scores:
Comprehensive Insights from the World’s Top Wine Critics

 

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Jancis Robinson (JR) • One of the World’s Most Respected Wine Writers •

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Stephen Tanzer, International Wine Cellar (IWC) • No-Nonsense Wine Criticism •

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