Rutherford History and Vineyard

In 1850, Thomas Rutherford recognized the subtleties of an unproven plot of land that resembled Bordeaux. He planted the first vines in what was destined to become the Rutherford wine appellation.

When Phylloxera infested the Napa Valley in the late 19th century, Frenchman George de Latour was the first to import phylloxera resistant rootstock for his vineyard. This saved the wine industry in Napa Valley, paving the way for a prosperous future.

De Latour founded Inglenook Winery. In the 1940's, he produced some of the best Cabernet Sauvignon ever, bringing worldwide recognition to Rutherford and the Napa Valley.

De Latour brought over a young French wine maker named Tchelistcheff, who became a legend himself. He brought new world wine making techniques that revolutionized Napa Valley wine. He also coined the phrase, "Rutherford dust". This "dust" is synonymous with soil that is ideal for growing Cabernet Sauvignon.

The premier Rutherford wine comes from a strip pf land between the western mountains and the mid-valley floor. This area is known as the Rutherford Bench, and the vineyards in this area produce fruit with unparalleled flavor and intensity. This is where Fotinos Brothers Winery produces some of the most intense, yet unique Cabernet Sauvignon fruit in the region.

The growing conditions in Rutherford are ideal for producing world class Cabernet Sauvignon. The warm mid-valley climate and dry soil conditions lead to fruit with flavors that are more concentrated and developed tannins. These tannins soften over time so the wine is best consumed after being cellared 5-7 years.

Many of the world's top wine makers are drawn to this historic region because of the fruit produced in the Rutherford vineyards. Fotinos Brother's Winery feels very fortunate to farm CLV vineyard and produce a Cabernet Sauvignon that will make this legendary region proud.