WINEMAKER'S NOTES:
A showstopper example of our western Rutherford benchland terroir. The captivating bouquet dances out of the glass pleasantly perfumed with notes of black cherry, dark plum, and wild violet. Focused, bright red berry fruits on the palate with notes of rich, dark blackcurrant, blackberry, graphite, and black licorice. Signature “Rutherford dust” tannins provide presence and grip with satisfying firmness, offering a mouth-pleasing character. A delightful fluidity is supported by a lean backbone of acidity, offering balance, tension, and finesse, all culminating in a powerful, full-bodied expression with length and persistence. This wine leaves an indelible impression epitomizing classic Rutherford nuance and elegance. Undeniably drinkable now with the potential to age exquisitely for many years to come.
TASTING NOTES:
Bright and fruity with black currant, blackberry, boysenberry and black licorice notes, but not overdone. Full-bodied with tension from tannins that nicely frame the wine. Firm, bright and focused, even racy. Drinking so well now but will age beautifully
- James Suckling, 95 pts.
The 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Rutherford Reserve is another super-expressive wine in this range from BV. It offers up dark-toned fruit, mocha, dried herbs, gravel, incense and pipe tobacco. Medium in body and quite reserved, the 2021 needs a few years to unwind, but it certainly has a ton to offer. The 2021 is a big step up from the past, reflecting a move from an appellation-level wine to a more important bottling. The Reserve is made from vineyards on the western side of the appellation. It is essentially the second wine to the Georges de Latour.
- Vinous, 94 pts.
A woodsy lift on a core of ripe black fruits gains detail with accents of graphite and espresso grounds. Savory, lightly sweet caramel and mixed spices bring additional depth. Powdery tannins and balanced acidity coat the palate, remaining approachable and ageworthy with a long finish
- Wine Enthusiast, 93 pts.
