# Beaulieu Vineyard Rutherford Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon (2019)

- **Producer:** Beaulieu Vineyard
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, Malbec
- **Region:** California, United States
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.9%
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Later
- **Serving temperature:** 16–18 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** black cherry, blackcurrant, black plum, cedar, vanilla, cloves, leather, earth

## About this wine

The Beaulieu Vineyard Rutherford Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2019 is a distinguished red wine from the Rutherford AVA in Napa Valley, California. It is a testament to Beaulieu Vineyard's long-standing commitment to producing exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon, embodying the unique terroir of its Rutherford estate vineyards. The wine is deeply connected to the concept of 'Rutherford Dust,' signifying the unique mineral and textural characteristics imparted by the Rutherford appellation's soils. Beaulieu Vineyard (BV) is one of Napa Valley's most historic wineries, founded in 1900 by Georges de Latour, with a legacy of producing benchmark California Cabernet Sauvignon. The 2019 vintage experienced a later start due to February rains, followed by a cool, gradual maturation period, resulting in lower sugar levels, full flavors, and excellent balance.

## Interesting facts

- Known affectionately as 'Baby Georges' in tribute to BV's iconic Georges de Latour Private Reserve.
- Sourced from BV Ranches No. 1, No. 2, and No. 10 on the western Rutherford benchland.
- The 2019 vintage benefited from a cool, slow maturation period.
- A significant bottling that reflects the distinct Rutherford AVA terroir.

## Food pairing

The wine's full body and structured tannins are well-suited to complement the richness and protein of red meats, preventing the food from overwhelming the wine and vice-versa. The fruit notes in the wine can echo or contrast with fruit-based sauces, while its inherent complexity can stand up to savory and earthy flavors.

## Wine making process

The winemaking process for the Beaulieu Vineyard Rutherford Reserve begins with hand-picked grapes from BV's Rutherford estate vineyards. The grapes are destemmed and undergo a seven-day cold soak for gentle extraction of color and tannins. Fermentation lasts for 8-12 days with the use of pump-overs for skin integration. Following fermentation, the wine is aged for 21 months in 100% French oak barrels, with 80% of these being new. The 2019 vintage was characterized by a later start due to weather patterns, leading to a cool, slow maturation period.