Fast facts:
- 2021 Kirkland Signature Cabernet Sauvignon, Rutherford, Napa Valley, California ($18.99@Costco, California, Item# 1265184)
The term “Rutherford dust” routinely gets applied to tasting notes of wines from this part of the Napa Valley.
But what theories explain why grapes and wines from this AVA tend to share this characteristic?
The best – and most plausible answers – we have found suggest that in Rutherford, the deeper soils and microclimates create longer growing seasons and ‘hang time’ that serve to round out the tannins in a soft, dusty style. This gives wines from the area a powdery ‘fine dusty tannin’ quality with hints of cocoa powder. It’s a delightful element in these wines. Rutherford is distinct due to its gravelly, sandy and loamy soils, which provide exceptional drainage for growing Cabernet Sauvignon and other Bordeaux varietals. Another interesting aspect is the sun exposure. Rutherford has a higher “radiant value” due to it being the widest point in Napa Valley. Thus, the region spends more time in the sun. This bonus sun exposure combined with the warm days and cool nights allow the fruit grown here to ripen steadily and evenly. This enables winemakers to make exceptional wines.
Simple as that!
Tasting Notes:
From the back label: “…from the historic Rutherford AVA in Napa Valley known for its classic “Rutherford Dust” profile.” Many would agree with the “dust” descriptor applied to the nose and flavors, but we prefer to think of it as cocoa powder. It pours a dark ruby color with aromas and flavors of dry violets, dark red fruits, cocoa, and spice. Medium-to-full bodied with a nice finish of cherry and blackberry.
While this dusty descriptor is common, we’ll tell you something that isn’t and that is finding a 92 point Rutherford Cab for under $20. This is a wine to stock up on…see you at Costco!
Need More Wine Picks from Costco – or Trader Joe’s Even?
If your wine shopping excursions land you in Costco, prepare by grazing our most recent reviews of Costco wines here in our Lucky 13 list.
And if your shopping finds you at Trader Joe’s, you can find our Lucky 13 list of TJ’s wine here.
Happy hunting.
Cheers!
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