By Vineyard 29
2022 Cru Cabernet Sauvignon Rutherford

Vineyard
Our Cru Rutherford Cabernet Sauvignon is sourced from two unique sites on the east side of the Rutherford appellation. One site sits just off Zinfandel Lane and the other on Conn Creek Road. Both of these mature vineyards yield Cabernets with that signature red Rutherford dust fruit profile. This inaugural offering is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon from Rutherford. Each vineyard plays a role in this uniquely focused Cru bottling, contributing to the juicy approachability and great structure that our Cru Cabernet Sauvignons are known for.

Vintage
The 2022 growing season began in early March, following a few wet winter months, which set the stage for an excellent bud break. Timing was in line with the five-year average, and warmer temperatures during the last week of February helped push smooth development across the valley. April was a bit cooler than average, and some vineyards had to be protected from potential frost damage, but things warmed up in May, providing adequate conditions for bloom and fruit set. The summer months of the growing season were remarkably consistent with warm days and cool nights - a perfect diurnal weather pattern for flavor development and bright acidity. During Labor Day weekend, an unprecedented period of triple-digit highs shocked the valley - nine days straight of triple digits. Several vineyards were harvested during or soon after the heat wave, while others held strong into the first two weeks of October, when the last of the fruit made its way to the winery. Much of the late-ripening fruit came from the Rutherford and Oakville areas.

Wine Details
Harvest Dates: September 25 - October 6, 2022
Barrel Age: 18 months in 100% French oak, 65% new
Cooperage: Taransaud, Boutes, Treuil, Cadus
Blend: 100% Cabernet Sauvignon
Bottling Date: April 25, 2024
Alcohol: 14.80%
pH: 3.74
TA: 0.58

Tasting Notes
The inaugural 2022 Cru Rutherford Cabernet Sauvignon is the newest member of the Cru AVA series and possesses a unique flavor profile, truly reminiscent of what Rutherford has to offer. Dusty red cherry, potpourri, dried lavender, cedar, and cigar box aromas with hints of mocha on the nose. The wine enters the palate with verve and energy, remaining medium-full, integrated, and balanced throughout. The Cru Rutherford is predominantly red-fruit-driven, with perfumed, floral notes of rose petals, making it the "prettiest" of the Cru AVA series. The wine finishes firm, structured, and balanced, reminding the consumer that while this Cabernet is thoroughly enjoyable upon release, it will age gracefully for many years to come.
[Information provided by Vineyard 29]

Wine: Vineyard 29 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon CRU (Rutherford)
Score/Rating: 92
Suggested Drinking Window: 2025 - 2029
Review Date: 12/2024
Reviewed By: Antonio Galloni
Tasting Notes: The 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon CRU Rutherford is a brooding, explosive wine. Black cherry, bittersweet chocolate, new leather, gravel and spice stain the palate. Rich and heady but not at all overdone, the Rutherford Cabernet Sauvignon will delight Vineyard 29 fans. This is beautifully rendered.