Guide to Rutherford Wineries in Napa Valley

It has been argued that the wineries in Rutherford produce the best Cabernet Sauvignon in the entire state. The well drained soil in the region along with the warm temperatures in Rutherford certainly has made it an ideal location for growing this highly valued grape. Whether or not the wineries in Rutherford truly are the best in the entire state when it comes to Cabernet Sauvignon may be a matter of personal opinion. If you are going to be in Napa Valley; however, you will certainly want to make a stop by at least a few of these acclaimed wineries to find out for yourself.

Cakebread Cellars-Although the region itself is known for Cabernet Sauvignon, Cakebread Cellars has earned a reputation based on Chardonnay. Jack Cakebread, owner and founder, has been producing quality wines for more than three decades.

Honig Vineyards-The first Sauvignon Blanc and Cabernet Sauvignon grapes of in Rutherford were planted in 1964 by Louis Honig. In the beginning, his grapes were sold to other wineries in Napa Valley; however, today he produces his own wines.

Sullivan Vineyards-Jim Sullivan, a former graphic designer, moved to Rutherford in 1972 and established Sullivan Vineyards. His first wine was produced in 1981 and he has been producing quality wines ever since.

Caymus Vineyards-This winery specializes in Cabernet Sauvignon grapes and produces two different wines from their Cabernet Sauvignon grapes.

Grgich Hills-Mike Grgich turned the wine scene upside down in 1976 when his 1973 Cheateau Montelena Chardonnay took the top prize at the Paris Wine Tasting for the white wine category. Grgich Hills was founded the following year and the wine industry in Napa Valley has never been the same.

Conn Creek Winery-Originally established in 1973, this winery received critical acclaim for their 1974 Eisele Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon. You will find the winery just off Rutherford Crossroad between Silverado Trail and Highway 29.

Quintessa-Quintessa has come to be known for wine that is truly excellent as well as expensive. More than 270 of the best acreage in Rutherford comprises Quintessa.

Peju Province-Located on the east side of Highway 29, Peju Province is a select winery that restricts their work to a very small group of retailers and distributors. If you wish to purchase Peju Province wine, the best way to do so is to visit their winery in Rutherford.

Pina Napa Valley-The Pina Family is an excellent example of the long tradition of wine making in Napa Valley. Pina Napa Valley was originally established in 1981; however, the Pina family is part of a winemaking heritage that extends back several decades to St. Helena.

Provenance Vineyards-The first Cabernet Sauvignon was released by this winery in 1999; however, the property on which the winery resides was originally owned by Thomas Rutherford during the 1800s.

Alpha Omega Winery-Travel down Highway 29 and you will find Alpha Omega winery. Founded by Eric Sklar and Robin Baggett, this winery is a fine example of how hobby winemaking can become a successful venture.

Tres Sabores-Also known as Three Tastes, this winery is located in the western hills of Rutherford. A Zinfandel based blend as well as a regular Zinfandel and a Cabernet Sauvignon are produced by Tres Sabores.

Raymond Vineyards-Originally established in 1971, Raymond Vineyards is a true family operation.

Hall Wines-Two different production facilities comprise Hall Wines. One is located in St. Helena and the other in Rutherford. If you would like to visit the tasting room in Rutherford, you will need to make an appointment; however, the one in St. Helena is open to the public.

Beaucanon Winery-Beaucanon was originally established in 1978 by Jacques de Conick from the Bordeaux region of France. His family has been in the business of making wine for more than 260 years.

Staglin Family Vineyards-This has become one of the most successful operations in the entire Valley and is certainly well worth a visit.

Rubicon Estate-If you are a fan of The Godfather movies, you are already familiar with the direction work of Francis Ford Coppola. Rubicon Estate, one of the most famous wineries in Napa Valley; however, is another example of Coppola’s far ranging interests. The Rubicon, an acclaimed Cabernet Sauvignon blend, is his flagship wine.