Originally founded in 1880 as Inglenook Winery, this estate has produced some legendary wines over the years, and although it has gone through a few ownership and name changes, the estate has been completely reassembled, and there is no doubt that the attention is once again on making world-class wines. The estate is located in Rutherford, one of Napa’s historically great appellations, and Inglenook has been a big part of establishing that reputation.
Very dark ruby in color, verging on purple, the 2007 Rubicon Captain’s Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon leaves no doubt that it is a concentrated wine. The nose is loaded with classic Cabernet aromas of cassis, blackcurrant, and tobacco, with notes of vanilla, plum, and black cherry. The palate continues this fruit forwardness with blackberry and currant, but gains complexity with hints of leather, dark chocolate mousse, and caramel. There is even a note of… what is it… white pepper? No… iron? Not quite… oh! It’s dust! The famous mineral-rich soil of the Rutherford district is said to give its wines a unique, but very pleasant “dusty” character, and it is definitely present here, lending an earthy element that acts as a great counterpoint to the rich, intense fruit flavors. With plenty of acid to add focus, and wonderful length, this elegant wine is truly a complete package. Perfect for steak and mushrooms, steak au poivre, grilled steak… or even grilled Portobello mushrooms, for those less excited about steak. Designed to drink now, you are going to be very glad you have this wine as barbecue season begins.
While wine snobs may spend a little too much time obsessing about terroir, it’s true that there is nothing quite like recognizing the effects a vineyards unique soil and climate can have on the flavor of a wine, and this Cabernet delivers in a big way. If you haven’t had this experience, you owe it to yourself to give this one a try, and experience Rutherford in a bottle. At just $36 for a Cabernet from one of Napa’s most prestigious regions, and one of America’s great historical wineries, this one is impossible to pass up!
Gold Medal
Light pink in color with aromas of watermelon, cranberry, orange rind, and fresh spring flowers that leap from the glass. The palate offers more peach, strawberry, and melon, with an intriguing note of rose and hibiscus. It's crisp with just the perfect hint of red fruit, and delicate whisper of strawberry that gives goosebumps.
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