Rutherford Ranch Chardonnay
Napa Chardonnay from a family estate on the Silverado Trail.
The story behind Rutherford Ranch
The property on the Silverado Trail in St. Helena started as Round Hill Winery in 1978, founded by Ernie and Virginia Van Asperen with Charlie Abela. The Zaninovich family, long time shareholders, bought it in 2000, replanted the vineyards, and put their own name on the gate. Three generations of that family still run it.
Rutherford Ranch Chardonnay is 100 percent Chardonnay, much of it from cool Carneros vineyards where San Pablo Bay fog holds the acidity in place. Part of the fruit ferments in stainless steel for freshness, the rest in French and American oak, then the wine rests sur lie for 10 to 15 months. Estate vineyards are certified sustainable through the California Sustainable Winegrowing Alliance.
Explore the Rutherford Ranch range
Two Chardonnays, one house style: the estate bottling for the table, the Reserve for the richer pour. Both Napa Valley, both barrel influenced.
| Expression | Type | Proof / ABV | Tasting notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rutherford Ranch Chardonnay 750mL | Napa Valley Chardonnay | 14.5% ABV | Lemon zest, pear, green apple, vanilla, baking spice |
| Rutherford Ranch Reserve Chardonnay 750mL | Reserve Napa Valley Chardonnay | 13.0% to 14.5% ABV | Creme brulee, baked apple streusel, honey, toasted almond |
| Rutherford Ranch Sauvignon Blanc 750mL | Napa Valley Sauvignon Blanc | Not stated | Crisp white for the same table, brighter finish |
| Rutherford Ranch Cabernet Sauvignon 750mL | Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon | Not stated | House red, dark fruit and oak, roast and steak |
| Rutherford Ranch Two Range Red 750mL | Red blend | Not stated | Everyday red blend, soft tannin, weeknight pour |
Which Rutherford Ranch is right for you?
The estate Chardonnay sits at $13.99 for a 750mL, and the Reserve runs $21.99, so you can drink the first on a Tuesday and open the second when the crab comes out. The Rutherford Ranch Sauvignon Blanc is $19.99, the Two Range Red $16.99, and the Cabernet Sauvignon $36.99. Stock on the Chardonnays and the Two Range Red moves fast, so call (631) 343-7200 to confirm what is on the shelf before you drive over.
Barrel weight without a luxury price, chilled and poured with roast chicken.
Richer sur lie texture and honeyed fruit stand up to butter and shellfish.
Same estate, same family, a Cabernet for the grill and the cellar shelf.