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Rutherford Hill Winery

Napa valley, california.

rutherford hill winery tours

Rutherford Hill commands a spetacular view overlooking the rutherford bench of Napa Valley. The founders of Rutherford Hill believed that the soil and the climate of the valley are similar with Pomerol (Bordeaux), which are well suited for growing Merlot. Rutherford Hill was among the first to pioneer what has become one of Napa’s premier varietals.

They were also innovators in Napa Valley in the building of caves and the concept of a pallet-stacking system within those caves. 

Classic Tasting A selection of their reds and whites. Signature Tasting A collection of signature reds. Icon Tasting A tasting of the most prestigious wines offered in their portfolio.

Tasting Price: $30 to $60 p/p

Cave Tour & Barrel Tasting

Tour Price: $50 p/p

Barrel Tastings

This winery is popular for its Barrel Tastings. Try wines directly out of oak barrels during a wine tour or tasting with this producer.

This winery offers Cave Tours on or nearby their winery facility. Cave Tours typically involve barrel room exploration in either natural caves or man made underground storage rooms.

Cheese Platters

This winery offers Cheese Platters at the tasting room or restaurant.

Picnic Area

There are areas to relax, eat and drink outside.

Wine Tastings

This winery offers wine tastings on the property either by walk-in or appointment.

This winery offers wine tours on their property. Either of the winery facility, vineyards and/or cellar space.

Grape Varieties

  • Cabernet Sauvignon
  • Sauvignon Blanc

Wine Styles

  • Dry Red Wines
  • Dry White Wines
  • Red Wine Blends

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Rutherford Hill Winery Cover Image

Rutherford Hill Winery

A brief history.

Rutherford Hill Winery Logo

200 Rutherford Hill Road United States, California 94573

www.rutherfordhill.com

[email protected]

+17079631871

Rutherford Hill Winery Wines

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Rutherford Hill Winery is a luxury wine destination in Napa Valley that has been producing award-winning wines since 1972. Nestled high in the Eastern Hills, the winery commands spectacular views overlooking the Rutherford bench of Napa Valley. Visitors can enjoy the views along with a glass of their favorite varietal from the Oak Grove picnic grounds or tour the extensive hillside wine caves carved deep into the cliffs behind the winery.

The winery offers a wide range of classic and library wines, such as Cabernet Sauvignon , Merlot, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and more. Visitors can browse the wines and find their favorite varietals or discover new ones with the help of the winery's experts. Rutherford Hill Winery has been one of the first to pioneer Merlot in Napa Valley, and the Terlato family has enhanced the quality and character of their wines with state-of-the-art facilities, caves, and vineyards.

Take Silverado Trail south and turn left on Rutherford Hill Road to find the winery's tasting room. Visitors can learn about the winemaker, the caves, and the views from this luxury wine destination in Napa Valley. Rutherford Hill Winery offers tours, tastings, and events, making it a perfect destination for wine enthusiasts.

History and Location

Founding and development.

Rutherford Hill Winery was founded in 1972 and is located in the Napa Valley region of California. The winery was established by a group of wine enthusiasts who were inspired by the Bordeaux-style wines of France. Over the years, Rutherford Hill has become renowned for its high-quality Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Chardonnay.

The winery has a rich history of crafting legendary wines from a handful of the most select Napa vineyards. Rutherford Hill Winery continues to maintain its tradition of producing exceptional wines by using the same time-honored techniques that have been passed down from generation to generation.

Rutherford Hill Road and Napa Valley

Rutherford Hill Winery is situated on Rutherford Hill Road, which is known for its stunning views of the Napa Valley. The road winds past the luxurious Relais & Châteaux Auberge du Soleil hillside resort & spa before ending at the winery.

The Napa Valley is one of the most famous wine regions in the world, known for its perfect climate and soil conditions for growing grapes. The valley is home to over 400 wineries, each with its own unique style and flavor.

Rutherford Hill Winery is located high on a hill, commanding a spectacular view overlooking the Rutherford bench of Napa Valley. Visitors can enjoy a tour of the nearly mile-long caves, sample the hand-crafted wines in the tasting room, and end their afternoon with a picnic in the oak grove or lounging in the luxury cabanas.

Overall, Rutherford Hill Winery is a must-visit destination for any wine lover visiting the Napa Valley region.

Visiting the Winery

Rutherford Hill Winery is a must-visit destination for wine lovers who want to experience the best of Napa Valley . The winery is located high in the Eastern Hills, and commands a breathtaking view of the Rutherford bench. Here are some things to know before you go.

Making Reservations

Rutherford Hill Winery is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm, but reservations are required for all tastings and tours. Visitors can make reservations by calling the winery or by booking online. It is recommended to make reservations well in advance, especially during peak season.

Tasting Room Experience

The tasting room at Rutherford Hill Winery offers a unique experience for visitors. Guests can sample a variety of hand-crafted wines while enjoying one of the best views in the Napa Valley. Tasting flights are available from $25-$40, and include current releases, library wines, and large format bottles. The winery also offers a cheese and charcuterie pairing with its reserve-tier wines.

Best Times to Visit

The best time to visit Rutherford Hill Winery is during the spring and fall, when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. Summer is the busiest season, and the winery can get crowded on weekends. Winter is also a good time to visit, as the winery offers special events and tastings during the holiday season.

Exclusive Tours and Caves

For visitors who want to experience more of Rutherford Hill Winery, the winery offers exclusive tours and cave experiences. The ATV & Cave Tour takes guests up the hill to the estate vineyard, where they can learn about sustainable farming practices. Afterward, guests can cruise back down for a tour of the mile-long wine caves. The winery also offers barrel tastings and private tastings for groups.

Wine Selections

Rutherford Hill Winery offers a wide variety of hand-crafted wines that are sure to please any palate. From current releases to library wines and large format bottles, wine lovers will find something to enjoy at the winery.

Current Releases and Tastings

The current releases at Rutherford Hill Winery include a range of varietals, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Chardonnay. Tasting flights are available from $25-$40, and include a selection of the winery's current releases. Guests can enjoy the tastings while taking in the stunning views of the Napa Valley.

Library Wines and Large Format Bottles

For those looking for something special, Rutherford Hill Winery offers library wines and large format bottles. Library wines are aged to perfection and are only available in limited quantities. Large format bottles, such as magnums, are perfect for special occasions or for those who like to collect wine.

Winery Exclusive Wines

Rutherford Hill Winery also offers winery exclusive wines that are only available at the winery. These wines are made in limited quantities and are not available for purchase anywhere else. Guests can enjoy a taste of something truly unique and special when they visit the winery.

In summary, Rutherford Hill Winery offers a diverse selection of wines that are sure to please any wine lover. From current releases to library wines and large format bottles, guests can enjoy a taste of something special while taking in the stunning views of the Napa Valley.

Winery Specialties

Rutherford Hill Winery is known for its exceptional Merlot and Red Blends, which are made from grapes grown in the Rutherford AVA. The winery's Merlot is a standout, with a deep ruby color and aromas of black cherry, plum, and vanilla. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied and rich, with flavors of dark fruit, chocolate, and spice. The tannins are firm but well integrated, giving the wine a long, smooth finish.

In addition to its Merlot, Rutherford Hill Winery offers a range of Red Blends that are equally impressive. The winery's flagship blend, the Rutherford Hill Barrel Select Red, is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Syrah. This wine is rich and complex, with aromas of blackberry, cassis, and mocha. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied and velvety, with flavors of dark fruit, chocolate, and spice. The tannins are firm but well integrated, giving the wine a long, smooth finish.

Rutherford Hill Winery also offers a range of Distinctive Gifts and Souvenirs that are perfect for wine lovers. The winery's gift shop features a selection of wine-related items, including wine glasses, corkscrews, and decanters. In addition, the winery offers a selection of gourmet food items, such as artisanal cheeses, cured meats, and chocolates, that pair perfectly with its wines.

For visitors who want to take a piece of Rutherford Hill Winery home with them, the winery offers a selection of branded merchandise, including t-shirts, hats, and wine totes. These items are perfect for wine enthusiasts who want to show their love for Rutherford Hill Winery.

Merlot and Red Blends

Rutherford Hill Winery's Merlot and Red Blends are some of the best in the Napa Valley. The winery's Merlot is a standout, with a deep ruby color and aromas of black cherry, plum, and vanilla. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied and rich, with flavors of dark fruit, chocolate, and spice. The tannins are firm but well integrated, giving the wine a long, smooth finish.

The winery's Red Blends are equally impressive. The Rutherford Hill Barrel Select Red, for example, is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Syrah. This wine is rich and complex, with aromas of blackberry, cassis, and mocha. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied and velvety, with flavors of dark fruit, chocolate, and spice. The tannins are firm but well integrated, giving the wine a long, smooth finish.

Distinctive Gifts and Souvenirs

Rutherford Hill Winery's gift shop offers a range of Distinctive Gifts and Souvenirs that are perfect for wine lovers. The shop features a selection of wine-related items, including wine glasses, corkscrews, and decanters. In addition, the winery offers a selection of gourmet food items, such as artisanal cheeses, cured meats, and chocolates, that pair perfectly with its wines.

Membership and Benefits

Rutherford Hill Winery offers a Wine Club membership program that provides exclusive benefits and access to their limited production wines. Club members can enjoy the following advantages.

Club Member Advantages

  • Exclusive access to limited production wines.
  • Be the first to enjoy new release wines.
  • 20-25% savings on Wine Club selections.
  • 25% reorder discounts with shipping incentives.
  • 15% savings on merchandise purchases.
  • Complimentary tastings and tours for up to four people.

Club members can also participate in their Club Ambassador Program, which provides them with the opportunity to earn rewards and exclusive experiences by referring friends and family to join the Wine Club.

Membership Types

Rutherford Hill Winery offers two types of memberships: Red Wine Only and Mixed Wine. Both memberships include the same benefits listed above, but the Red Wine Only membership focuses on their red wine offerings while the Mixed Wine membership includes a variety of their red and white wines.

Overall, the Wine Club membership program at Rutherford Hill Winery is an excellent way for wine enthusiasts to gain exclusive access to their limited production wines and enjoy significant savings on their wine purchases.

Events and Private Gatherings

Rutherford Hill Winery is an ideal location for hosting events and private gatherings. With a dedicated staff that prides itself on creating exceptional wine-centric events, Rutherford Hill is the perfect venue for both corporate and social events.

Hosting Events at Rutherford Hill

The winery offers a variety of private event spaces, including the cave, which is perfect for intimate gatherings, and the terrace, which offers stunning views of the Rutherford Bench. The team at Rutherford Hill can create custom menus and wine pairings to make your event truly unforgettable.

In addition to the stunning location and expert staff, Rutherford Hill also offers a range of team building activities, including interactive wine education sessions. These activities are perfect for corporate events and provide a unique way to bring your team together.

Annual Winery Events

Rutherford Hill Winery also hosts several annual events that are open to the public. These events include the annual Harvest Party, which celebrates the end of the grape harvest season, and the Holiday Open House, which is a festive celebration of the holiday season.

Guests can enjoy live music, food and wine pairings, and exclusive access to the winery's limited release wines. These events are a great way to experience the beauty and hospitality of Rutherford Hill Winery.

Whether you are looking to host a private event or attend one of the winery's annual events, Rutherford Hill is the perfect destination for wine lovers and those seeking an unforgettable experience in the heart of Napa Valley.

Sustainability and Community

Rutherford Hill Winery is committed to sustainable practices and community engagement. The winery believes that by taking care of the environment and the community, they can produce high-quality wines that reflect the unique terroir of Napa Valley.

Environmental Practices

Rutherford Hill Winery has implemented several environmental practices to reduce their carbon footprint and preserve the natural resources of the region. The winery is 100% solar-powered, which means that they use renewable energy to power their operations. They also use owl boxes in the vineyards to control pests naturally, reducing the need for harmful pesticides.

Additionally, Rutherford Hill Winery practices sustainable farming, which involves using cover crops, composting, and drip irrigation to conserve water and reduce soil erosion. They also recycle all of their waste materials, including glass, paper, and plastic.

Community Engagement

Rutherford Hill Winery is committed to giving back to the community. They support local charities and organizations, including the Napa Valley Food Bank and the Napa Valley Vine Trail Coalition. The winery also hosts events and fundraisers to raise awareness and support for these organizations.

Moreover, Rutherford Hill Winery is a member of the California Sustainable Winegrowing Alliance, which is dedicated to promoting sustainable practices in the wine industry. The winery is also certified as a sustainable vineyard and winery by the California Sustainable Winegrowing Program.

In conclusion, Rutherford Hill Winery's commitment to sustainability and community engagement is reflected in their high-quality wines and their dedication to preserving the natural resources of Napa Valley.

Awards and Recognition

Rutherford Hill Winery has been recognized for producing high-quality wines. In 2019, their 2016 Rutherford Cabernet Sauvignon was awarded 92 points by Wine Enthusiast, which described it as "dense and concentrated, with a lasting impression of fruit and oak." This same wine also won a Silver Medal at the 2019 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition.

In 2020, Rutherford Hill Winery received the Best Views in the Napa Valley award from Napa Valley Life Magazine. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the valley while sipping on their award-winning wines.

Over the years, Rutherford Hill Winery has won numerous awards for their Merlot, which is one of their flagship wines. The 2016 Merlot was awarded 91 points by Wine Enthusiast, which praised its "aromas of raspberry, vanilla, and toasted oak." The 2014 Merlot was also awarded a Silver Medal at the 2018 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition.

In addition to their Merlot, Rutherford Hill Winery has also been recognized for their Chardonnay. The 2018 Chardonnay was awarded 90 points by Wine Enthusiast, which described it as "rich and creamy, with a touch of oak and a long finish."

Overall, Rutherford Hill Winery's commitment to producing high-quality wines has earned them numerous awards and recognition in the wine industry. Visitors to the winery can enjoy not only their award-winning wines, but also breathtaking views of the Napa Valley.

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Rutherford Hill Winery

Updated 1 month ago

Photo of Rutherford Hill Winery - Rutherford, CA, US. Cave entrance

Review Highlights

Ankit P.

“ Danielle Infante was my wine educator did a fantastic job showing me around and explaining things for us. ” in 13 reviews

rutherford-hill-winery-rutherford photo 5FaifVUotgyAXQ289Muy9A

“ Enjoyed a relaxing tasting with friends after work, with Jeremiah who was the perfect blend of fun and informative! ” in 11 reviews

rutherford-hill-winery-rutherford photo j0M0YPtnDPoz56-NsKFNDg

“ My mother-in-law was visiting from Pennsylvania so we did a cave tour and barrel tasting with Aaron. ” in 27 reviews

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200 Rutherford Hill Rd

Rutherford, CA 94573

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Photo of Melissa W.

We invite you to join us for an unparalleled wine country experience. Nestled high in the Eastern Hills, Rutherford Hill Winery commands spectacular views overlooking the Rutherford bench of Napa Valley. Enjoy them-along with a glass of your favorite varietal-from our ever popular Oak Grove picnic grounds, or tour our extensive hillside wine caves, carved deep into the cliffs behind the winery. Explore our wide collection of hand-crafted wines in our tasting room or on our patio, and find the perfect one to please your palate. It is from a handful of the most select Napa vineyards that Rutherford Hill continues its tradition of crafting legendary wines. In 1976, while the rest of the world was just beginning to take notice of Napa Valley, our founders recognized a unique opportunity. The Terlato Family believed that the climate and soil of the valley-similar to Pomerol-were well suited to the lush, purple-black grapes of Merlot and were among the first to pioneer what has become Napa's premier varietal. Today, this tradition of quality continues, expressed by wines of great complexity and character. …

Ask the Community

Ask a question

Do you allow babies?

Not at this time. No one under 21 is allowed on property due to Covid-19.

Are we able to skip the tasting and just enjoy a bottle here?

UPDATE - Currently wine club members are able to purchase and enjoy wines by the bottle while on property. Non wine club members are able to enjoy a tasting flight. Cheers!

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Overall rating

428 reviews

Photo of Bonnie F.

Wines were great! Both whites and reds were on point. Totally reintroduced us to Merlot after being big cab fans so much that we joined the wine club. Steven was extremely knowledgeable and very informative. Took the time to answer all of our questions. They welcomed our pups with their water bowl. We opted for the cheese pairing that went well with the wines along witholives and nuts for a nibble

Photo of Jason B.

2.5 stars... Another joint we wanted to hit up as it has been many years, and I loved their Merlot! Seated outdoors in a cabana as the temperature was rising... server bounced around to several other groups and would pop in with a new bottle. Whites were not cool enough, even the server agreed. It was too warm outside to really enjoy the reds. Not the experience we remember, and the tastings really should be indoors instead of on a hot concrete patio. Ambiance is part of the experience, and this one was poor.

rutherford hill winery tours

Beautiful grounds

Photo of Ivan M.

This is a multi-layered review. I was really looking forward to buying one of my favorite wines (Episode) which I had written to them about in my reservation. However, I ended up being very disappointed by the customer service experience. - "Episode" wine from Rutherford Hill gets 5 stars from me. For the price, in my opinion, this is one of the best red blends in Napa. I love it. - Karley, the woman who served us gets 4 stars. What I loved about what she did was that she actually did a Google search on me and she knew who I was and what I did for a living. That was unbelievably impressive. What I wasn't pleased about was the tasting process was very slow. Slower than it should be. - Now let's get to the manager, Logan. He gets one star. If I could do ZERO stars, that's what I would give him. I come to Napa to buy wine that I really care about. They knew I cared about Episode because I put that in the reservation. Not only was that not included in the tasting, Logan would NOT allow me to taste my favorite wine until I agreed to buy a case first. In all my years of coming to Napa, I have never experienced something like this at any good winery. Frankly, I would have bought two cases if Logan hadn't managed like the customer "no-service" department. The difference of a great enterprise has to start with the management. My message to Rutherford Hill... as a businessman who has run a global businesses - I'd take a good long look at whether you want Logan representing your brand.

Photo of Evelyn A.

We paid $160 for two wine tastings not Including a cheese plate board. I actually should've taken pictures because the $30 board was really like a five dollar waste of our time. we arrived 10 minutes early for the tasting. there was no one to greet us. When they finally did sign us in they said to have a seat and someone we get with us about 15 minutes later, someone came out with rose and our board. It was then 30 more minutes and someone came out with water about 10 minutes later, we decided to leave. not sure what is going on, but this would not be worth your time in my opinion. It was a waste of our money, money and time.

Photo of Veronica P.

We absolutely loved our wine tasting tour which included the caves. Stunning property but one of the most delicious Malbecs (my personal favorite). Great service! They also have an Atv tour that we are looking at doing next time.

Caves

We had the best experience here! Karen, our guide, led us through the beautiful property and amazing cave giving us an outstanding learning experience as well as sharing their phenomenal wines. It was definitely the highlight of the day and weekend!

rutherford hill winery tours

They weren't rude by any means, but we visited 8 wineries while we were in Napa, and this is the only one getting a negative review. I would consider it a waste of time and not worth the $90 per person.

Photo of Vanessa C.

My partner and I did the "ATV" tour and tasting at Rutherford Hill Winery and bought two bottles of wine. It was a first time to this winery and we booked online via Tock. While the description centered the "ATV" (a literal four person vehicle that acts as a shuttle to the hillside grow) I'd say it didn't add much to the experience other than the view. While we didn't expect to drive the ATVs ourselves we didn't know much what to expect given the very brief description online. I wouldn't say it was a "bonus" I'd go back for. Overall, we were a bit underwhelmed. Lori (our guide) was knowledgeable and friendly. She was kind and navigated unexpected obstacles (such as a broken cork while tasting out in the field- she was able to save it) very well. However, as an end to end experience there were opportunities for improvement. It was a bit off from the beginning, we booked a tour at 11am in advance (our preferred time). My partner was actually contacted in advance and asked if we'd switch to the 2pm tour to join another couple. We are very flexible (having come from fine dining myself, I understand how this might be easier for the establishment and the staff). However, I don't think they reached out to the other guests to confirm their tasting. When we arrived, we were impacted by late guests and cut short by their schedule since they voiced they had scheduled their flight immediately after their tasting. While the winery did give us a little extra taste of a port at the end (upon our request) we felt they could have been a bit more accommodating at the end to compensate for the time we lost out in the vineyard m. It was a bit of a disappointment since we were looking to take our time, planned our time in advance, and we're convinced to adjust to their schedules. Having switched to a time later in the day it was very hot on the hillside, and we were not offered water while in the vineyard. If you have the opportunity to maintain the 11am, I'd recommend you take advantage. Their winery is know more for production of the typical style of the region, Boudreaux blends and varietals. While the wine was full bodied, there weren't any distinctive characteristics or narratives behind any of the bottle that captured our attention for membership.

View from the top of Vineyard; the height of the "ATV" tour

View from the top of Vineyard; the height of the "ATV" tour

Front of the winery; across the street from the picnic tables (tip: paid reservations only)

Front of the winery; across the street from the picnic tables (tip: paid reservations only)

Photo of Kimberly N.

Karen H was a great host during our tasting. We actually called last minute and was able to get a reservation for 6 when they opened our favorite wine which we purchased was the Sauvignon Blanc. The black label is gorgeous and it was crisp and refreshing. We were able to tour the cave which was so cool to be inside. They held our bottles until we finished having lunch down the way at Auberge du soleil. There's also ev charging on property which was nice and convenient. The views from the hill is pretty amazing. It's a great winery.

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Photo of Denise C.

So drinking wine is not my cup of tea..but I have other appreciations of it..it's super fun to tour wineries and visit and the buildings are awesome..the landscapes are awesome..in United States..Napa county..sure..hang out at table and sip and have some company and do that again..fun

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Rutherford Hill is one of the older wineries in all of Napa Valley having been founded in 1972; they are among the oldest 30 still-existing wineries in Napa Valley who have been producing continuously since 1972 or earlier. The winery building was constructed in 1968 by Joseph Phelps of Hensel Phelps Construction Company. The property has had three owners during its lifetime – for a short time the winery was owned and operated by Pillsbury Company (the same company that made the Pillsbury dough-boy famous). They called the winery Souverain of Rutherford.

In 1976, a family with extremely deep roots in the Napa Valley and significant connections and contributions to the Napa wine world, the Jaegers led an investment group and in purchasing the winery and renamed it to Rutherford Hill. Several plaques on the wall near the entrance to the tasting room list the names of the general and limited founding partners and others who have spent at least 10 years on their winemaking team. Founding winemaker & one of the early partners Phil Baxter was at Rutherford Hill for 10 years.

The Jaegers operated the winery for some 20 years and significantly increased production. The height of production at Rutherford Hill was around 150,00 cases annually; today they produce about 40,000 cases each year. In 1996 the Jaegers sold the winery to the Terlato family, based near Chicago; they are still the current owners.

The Terlato family operate a large, historically rich and significant wine focused company (Terlato Wine Group) which includes both winery and vineyard ownership, wine import and export and wine marketing and sales. This multi-generational company imports wines from around the world. Besides Rutherford Hill (their first winery purchase), they also own Chimney Rock Winery, located just to the south of here next to the Silverado Trail, produce a very limited high end wine from Napa Valley called Episode, produce Napa and Sonoma Wines under the Terlato Family Vineyards brand, own Klipson Vineyard in the state of Washington’s Red Mountain AVA, own the majority of Sanford Winery in Lompoc, Friuli Colli Orientali, Italy and are partnered in Domaine Terlato & Chapoutier in Australia among many other partnerships, brands and holdings.

Still very much family owned, the company was led by visionary Anthony Terlato for many years (he died in July 2020) and today his sons Bill and John are carrying on the family business. Anthony got his start in the world of wine in 1955 working at his father Salvatore Terlato’s wine & spirits shop in Chicago (opened in 1955) called Leading Liquor Marts and then for his father-in-law Anthony Paterno at Pacific Wine Company. Over the years he has played a prominent role in a number of wine related businesses including wine importing – initially focusing on Italy. Often called the ‘father of Pinot Grigio” Anthony was responsible for introducing many American consumers to this variety for the first time. Although as a side note – separately, David Taub of Taub Family/Palm Bay International, arguably was also responsible for his role in bringing Pinot Grigio to the American market.

A highly recommended read for enthusiasts of Rutherford Hill Winery is Taste, a Life in Wine by Anthony Terlato. He describes his early upbringing, his fierce work ethic supported by strong family ties and his remarkable success and accomplishments in more than 50 years of working in the wine industry. His decisions and timing helped launch Lancers Rosé in Chicago, played an integral part in the success of Samuel Adams, Markham Vineyards and numerous other wineries and brands. And for culinary enthusiasts, this book is sprinkled with select family recipes (Italian cuisine of course).

rutherford hill winery tours

And this grove has additional more recent history – Lila Jaeger rejuvenated some of the trees and produced her first commercial olive oil from the grove in 1991 under the Jaeger Family Olive oil label. Lila (now deceased) also founded the California Olive Oil Council in 1992. While the Jaeger Family olive oil is no longer produced from this particular grove, their award-winning olive oil continues to be produced. So, you can see this grove is quite special for a number of reasons.

Select Wines Rutherford Hill produces a wide variety of wines including their flagship varietal – Merlot, a rosé of Merlot and a reserve Merlot. The limited production Winery Exclusive wines tend to be produced in small quantities but are also wines from varieties often used in blending such as Petit Verdot, Malbec and Cabernet Franc.

rutherford hill winery tours

The inception of a wine called Ian Tiago involves an engaging story. Former Rutherford Hill winemaker Marisa Taylor discovered that she was pregnant around the same time as her assistant winemaker at the time, Ana Diogo-Draper who later became Director of Winemaking at Artesa Winery. Ana is from Portugal. In a roundabout way, with encouragement from the Terlato family, both women decided to honor both their sons who were born within weeks of each other and their respective heritage with a red blend, 50% Cabernet Sauvignon and 50% Malbec. This was a wine that was intended to be made only once but became popular so now it is produced every year and is always the same blend. The first vintage of this wine was in 2009.

rutherford hill winery tours

The 2012 Terlato Family Vineyards Hill Cardinales’ Peak is a Bordeaux styled red blend. Offers pretty aromatics of ripe raspberry, red currant and chocolate covered cherries. Very food friendly with its energetic vibe of higher acid. Balanced with flavors of cranberry and red cherry. A tartness on the finish – with nicely integrated tannins. This wine has loads of life ahead of it – we tasted it 8 years after vintage, and it seemed almost like a younger wine.

There are not many Napa Valley wineries who produce a 100% varietal Petit Verdot. The 2016 Rutherford Hill Petit Verdot offers a diversity of aromas with plenty of fruit including a nice union of plum, red cherry and raspberry, along with black licorice, dried rose petal, dried herbs, dust and hints of pepper. Somewhat savory in its aromatic presentation. Red fruit across the palate with still tight somewhat astringent chewy tannins.

The 2018 Rutherford Hill Chardonnay was sourced from Carneros in the southern part of the Napa Valley. This wine is pale golden in the glass – shows a raciness on the bouquet that we sometimes but don’t usually find with Napa Valley wines from this varietal. As the wine breathes, opens to aromas of honeysuckle with hints of dried straw. Nice viscosity – almost oily in its textural feel. Flavors of green apple and hints of popcorn (a butter note we didn’t smell on the bouquet). Flavors of mandarin, some mineral nuances – lingers with a lemon/lime note.

And what is highly rare for a Napa winery – they often have certain older vintages for sale found under their library wine selection.

Hospitality The tasting room while spacious can get crowded at times – the rectangular bar serves all sides. Tasting space is also located directly outside the tasting room under a canvas type tent; this is open year-round and during the winter or colder days there is a liberal use of heat lamps (along with faux fires also providing heat). Unlike many wineries in the valley, Rutherford Hill provides bottle service – and guests can elect to order and enjoy a bottle of wine rather than doing a normal tasting flight.

Many Napa wine caves are very similar in appearance; barrels of wine will be stacked up inside gunnite coated (a type of sprayed on concrete) tunnels. The caves here are no different, however what sets them apart is that they are one of the oldest of the “modern caves” built in Napa Valley (dating from the mid 1980s). They were drilled by modern day Napa Valley winery cave pioneer Alf Burtleson. Alf told us that drilling these caves in particular made good economic sense since Rutherford Hill was already storing numerous wine barrels in a warehouse and had calculated significant losses each year due to the ‘angel’s share’. The cave environment mitigated some of these losses, essentially saving the company money with more wine to ultimately sell.

Alf’s first job was working on building a several mile stretch in the late 1950s of what is now the 280 freeway south of San Francisco. He formed Alf Burtleson Construction company in 1964; his first client was the San Francisco Water Department with work conducted on Twin Peaks. Alf’s first cave job in Napa Valley was in 1972, to repair the original Beringer caves which his company did successfully; this eventually led to more work for Beringer, including drilling new caves.

For a period of time in the 1980s Alf’s company was the only company drilling winery caves within Napa Valley. His drilling rig was a Dosco MK2a Roadheader which was originally used in the UK for drilling coal mines. Alf told us he chose this equipment because it was able to drill curved ceilings rather than some of the American equipment at the time could only drill flat ceilings. He sold his company in 2002; the last winery cave he drilled in Napa Valley was for Bryant Family Winery. A look at Napa Valley’s wine caves including the significant contributions that Alf made to the valley is highlighted in the book, Into the Earth: A Wine Cave Renaissance by Daniel D’Agostin and Molly Chappellet.

In addition, the tunnels are both wide and tall and extend for almost a mile. The cave is approximately 41,000 square feet; we were told up to 8,000 barrels are stored within the cave at any one time. As a result, their cave tours are extremely popular during all times of the year, but especially during harvest.

rutherford hill winery tours

During the tour you will try a barrel sample (usually of a Merlot) and visit the primary hospitality cave room which has been used in several TV culinary shows. This room can also be reserved for special events (during one of our visits it was being used as part of a corporate retreat) or even as a proposal spot. And as of our latest update to this review, Rutherford Hill also offers an ATV tour of their hillside vineyard, followed by tour to their cave and a tasting. Allow up to 2 hours for this experience.

Daily tours are given 3x a day on the weekdays and 4x a day on weekends and accommodate up to 15 guests so if you are visiting during a ‘slow’ time you may be able to reserve tour space that day by buying a “tour pass” from their tasting counter. Merlot blending seminars and several cave experiences and other meals can be reserved on a limited basis. Also check out the private shaded Oak Grove Picnic area, reserved for guests of the winery – with great views of the valley through the trees.

The winery building was in part constructed from recycled old railroad ties. Woodpeckers have an appetite for parts of the outside wood and for a while, the sounds of woodpecker distress calls were being played on outside speakers to discourage the birds from landing. During visits when the calls were not playing, we often noticed woodpeckers hanging out around the wooden building. As of our latest visit to the winery, shiny mylar objects hang and rotate from the exterior of the roof and the bird calls have been discontinued.

Rutherford Hill Winery is one of the few wineries in Napa Valley to allow picnicking. Reservations are required to do so. The coveted space for this is outdoors in the Oak Grove next to part of their parking lot. Finishing a significant renovation in 2024, this space was redeveloped into a more modern experience with small private cabana style tasting spaces perched on the edge of the oak grove with additional seating in the interior. On a clear day from the Oak Grove there are stunning views overlooking the valley floor, rolling hills, and of the Mayacamas mountains on the opposite side of the valley.

And visitors to the property will never see the huge array of solar cells mounted on the hillside behind the winery but surrounded by forest vegetation.

We should also mention that for quality of wines, their prices have always been reasonable. For more information and to join one of their wine clubs, visit: www.rutherfordhill.com

rutherford hill winery tours

OTHER TERLATO DOMESTIC AND OR HISTORICAL SPACES

NOTE: as time and budget permits, we will follow the heritage of the Terlato family to various places and spaces – and will significantly update this review accordingly over the next several years.

Sanford Winery The roots of Sanford Winery date back to 1971 when friends, botanist Michael Benedict (who is still involved) and Richard Sanford planted their first Pinot Noir vines in what is the Benedict & Sanford Vineyard in the Santa Rita Hills. Richard and Michael bonded over their mutual love of sailing and would often go sailing off the central California coast. They made their first wine in 1975 and their first commercial release was the 1976 vintage, a Pinot Noir bottled under the label, Sanford & Benedict. After Richard sold his interest in the operations in 1980, he went on to found Sanford Wines, Michael continued to run Sanford & Benedict – the existing winery was completed in 2001. The Terlato family became partners in 2002 and majority owners and managing partners by 2006.

The entire property is about 1,100 acres with some of their hillside land within the Santa Barbara Land Trust. Total property planted to vine is around 260 acres separated into two contiguous vineyards, the historic Benedict and Sanford Vineyard located within a very short drive of the winery and the La Rinconada Vineyard (first planted in 1995) – with both valley floor and hillside plantings next to the winery and hospitality space. The original barn/winery where the first vintages were produced is still located at the back of the Benedict and Sanford Vineyard property. The current production facility is located on the La Rinconada Vineyard (near the hospitality building).

The oldest Pinot Noir vines in all of Santa Barbara County grow at the Benedict and Sanford Vineyard. They were planted in 1971 and celebrated their 50th anniversary in 2021. For reference the oldest Pinot Noir vines in all of Napa County are at the Haynes Vineyard in Coombsville – still growing and dating from 1967/1968. What is unusual about the Pinot Noir vines at the Benedict and Sanford Vineyard is they are all own rooted (not on a rootstock). Today 51 acres of these old vines are still in production. The soils in this vineyard were exposed about a million years ago due to a landslide – the vineyard is primarily clay loam soils (with plenty of calcium) with the rock materials being fractured shale and chert.

Each vineyard site is organized into at least 20 different blocks of which there are 10+ different clones.

Santa Rita Hills is located in a rare for the state of California east-west orientation Traverse Mountain Range. We first heard about this mountain range when we were on a field trip for a plant taxonomy class hosted by California Polytechnic State University professor, Dr. David Keil. Based on the orientation of this mountain range and the proximity of Sanford Vineyards to the Pacific Ocean (about 10 miles as the crow flies, inland – their property sees a significant amount of fog and cooling breezes – ideal conditions for varieties such as Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. During our visit at the end of May, it was about 54 degrees, foggy and extremely windy in the morning – after our tasting we drove about 20 minutes away to warm sunshine and temperatures of around 75 degrees.

Santa Barbara County has a significant and remarkable number of microclimates from places like at Sanford Vineyards where their lower vineyards need wind fans to mitigate frost during certain times of the year, to the hills directly above the Pacific Ocean near Goleta where farms are commercially growing sub-tropical and tropical products such as coffee bushes, dragon fruit, cherimoyas, longans and ice cream beans ( inga edulis ).

The quintessential day at Sanford Winery is being surrounded by fog draped hillsides with a brisk breeze accentuating the already cold temperatures; this is a place where you truly feel the terroir as you taste it. All the wines we sampled showcased the Santa Rita Hills brightness.

The 2016 Sanford and Benedict Pinot Noir is light to medium ruby in the glass; this wine smells like a Pinot Noir should – and if one has experience tasting wines from this variety, will immediately recognize this as Pinot Noir. Focused on the fruit on the bouquet with higher toned aromatics including red cherry, cranberry and currant. Also, a hint of mint or menthol, and parchment paper. Balanced and bright across the palate with a subtle rounded texture complementing. Very soft tannins. Finishes cleanly – this wine is all about the typicity of this variety.

The 2016 Sanford Vineyard La Rinconada Pinot Noir are sourced directly from the vines in La Rinconada Vineyard growing near to the tasting room. This is a barrel selection from the best blocks within this vineyard. Shows some slight spice influence on the nose including white pepper and a very subtle hint of dried tobacco leaf. Also red licorice. The higher acid is a hallmark of this wine – bright and salivating with flavors of cranberry and currant. The tannins show a soft touch with some darker notes.

The 2015 Sanford Vineyard Founders’ Vines Pinot Noir is sourced entirely from the 1971 planting of Pinot Noir in the Sanford and Benedict Vineyard. Light ruby in color, initially shows a bit of Pinot Noir ‘funk’ with mushroom and some earth notes, but these aromas are not overwhelming. Soon the bouquet opens to additional aromas of red licorice, a hint of chocolate and more fruit. Shows a little bit savory, especially as it breathes more. Aromas of raspberry and red currant – reminds us of shopping for fresh red currants at outdoor markets in Germany. Packed with flavor yet delicate at the same time. Nicely balanced between acid that causes one to salivate versus acid that shows as tart. This is their most limited offering of any of their Pinot Noir wines, only 3 barrels produced.

The 2018 Sanford Vineyard La Rinconada Chardonnay went through 100% malolactic fermentation and was aged in about 25% new French oak. Medium gold in color; offers appealing and diverse aromatics including of honeysuckle, melon, hazelnut, a vanilla sweetness and a hint of caramel. Offers a supple texture complemented with brightness and liveliness of fruit and acid. Lingers with a hint of vanilla on the finish, notes of citrus (lemon meringue). The finish shows plenty of vitality.

While Pinot Noir and Chardonnay are their flagship varieties, they also grow a very small block of Viognier, produce some sparkling wine and also source grapes for their Syrah.

Sanford used to maintain a tasting room in downtown Santa Barbara but that has since closed. Visits to the winery and vineyard are by appointment, casual but informative. For more information, visit: www.sanfordwinery.com

rutherford hill winery tours

Terlato Kitchen produces a diversity of other products including oil and vinegar, biscotti, and maple syrup. Products can also be purchased directly from the Terlato Kitchen website here: www.terlatokitchen.com

Site of Anthony’s grandfather Antonio’s Floral Shop (179 Hester Street, NYC)

rutherford hill winery tours

Original Site of Pacific Wine & Paterno Imports Bottling Facility (836 South Sherman, Chicago)

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Rutherford Hill Winery

rutherford hill winery tours

  • Explore one of Napa Valley's earliest merlot pioneers at Rutherford Hill Winery
  • Enjoy panoramic views of Napa Valley while sampling merlot and Bordeaux varietal wines
  • Experience an intimate ATV tour exploring vineyards guided by experts like Karen or Logan

Highlighted reviews

Know before you go.

  • For a more personalized experience, request guides like Karen or Logan known for their exceptional service during tours
  • Make reservations online to secure availability especially if interested in outdoor tastings or picnics
  • Consider becoming a member for perks such as included tastings/picnics at sister wineries Chimney Rock & Sanford
  • Visit during weekdays when it might be less crowded compared to weekends for a more relaxed atmosphere

rutherford hill winery tours

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rutherford hill winery tours

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Top 8 Rutherford Wineries to Visit

  • Itineraries
  • by WINECOUNTRY COLLECTIVE
  • on JUNE 11, 2024

Round Pond Estate

Photo courtesy of Round Pond Estate

Tucked away between Oakville and St. Helena in Napa Valley, California, the Rutherford AVA is a little slice of paradise for those who love a good glass of red. This spot is a haven for Cabernet enthusiasts in particular, offering up the kind of full-bodied, luxurious Cabs that put Napa on the map. And for those who like to mix things up, there’s a delightful array of Bordeaux blends (and even sparkling wine!) to keep your taste buds entertained.

When it comes to wine, it’s all about location, location, location. Rutherford’s got a special something in its soil—a magical mix of gravel and sandy loam—that, along with a unique microclimate, gives grapes a longer time to hang and develop flavor. All this leads to wines that boast tannins softened into a smooth, dusty elegance, creating the renowned “Rutherford Dust”—a signature trait that’s become one of the most captivating qualities of Rutherford.

For an unforgettable journey through Napa Valley’s Rutherford region, we’ve put together a short list of some of the best tasting rooms to visit.

Sullivan Rutherford

Sullivan Estate Grounds

Led by the innovative Tony Peju, this family-owned winery shines with its classic Bordeaux varietals, including its Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon. Book a Classic Seated Tasting to experience five of Peju Winery ’s most popular Napa Valley wines. You can also request a cheese plate and, on the weekends, a Chef’s Sampler to accompany your tasting. Pay a visit here and you may see the matriarch of the family, Herta Peju, digging in the dirt to ensure the roses and dahlias are at their finest.

Insider Tip : Visit the charming, 50-foot tower on property that graces all estate-bottled Peju labels. It also happens to be one of the tallest buildings in Napa Valley.

8466 St. Helena Highway, Rutherford, CA 94573, (707) 963-3600

Round Pond Estate.

Round Pond Winery is a family-owned gem known for its small-lot Cabernet Sauvignon and estate-grown olive oils. The winery’s commitment to artisanal winemaking shines through in every glass, which you can sip from the serene ambiance of the covered patio. Did we mention the panoramic vineyard views? Yeah, they’re photo-worthy.

Insider Tip : Book the Estate Tasting for an intimate exploration of Round Pond’s premium wines, complemented by a selection of house-made accompaniments. This guided tasting is a perfect way to immerse yourself in the rich flavors and stories of this beloved winery.

875 Rutherford Road, Rutherford, CA 94573, (707) 302-2575

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Priority Wine Pass

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Rutherford Hill Winery

  • Wine Regions
  • Napa Valley

10% off wine purchases

Get this offer as well as discounts at over 400 other wineries and businesses when you buy a Priority Wine Pass

See Pricing Rutherford Hill Winery Address:

200 Rutherford Hill Road, Saint Helena, 94574

Offer Details: Please mention that you are a Priority Wine Pass member. Phone: (707) 963-1871 Website: http://www.rutherfordhill.com/ Hours: 10am-5pm Daily Tastings: Signature Selection: $60

Wine Cave Private Tour & Seated tasting: $85/person

Bottle Service and Picnic in the Oak Grove: $75 for picnic table + 2 bottle minimum purchase. Picnic fee will be refunded w/ any wine purchase +$200 or more.

· Cave Tour & Barrel Tasting: $50

· Icon Tasting: $60

rutherford hill winery tours

Nestled high on a hill, Rutherford Hill Winery commands a spectacular view overlooking the Rutherford bench of Napa Valley. It is from a handful of the most select Napa vineyards that Rutherford Hill continues its tradition of crafting legendary wines.

The guiding vision for our family-owned winery is to make a Napa Valley Merlot that is supple and refined. Although we are guided by the traditions of St. Émilion and Pomerol, we make Merlot that is proudly California. Our goal is to make the Merlot you love. But we don’t stop at Merlot. Our portfolio of world-class Rutherford Hill wines includes Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and other wines produced from grapes grown in an array of carefully selected estate vineyards.

To see a list of our most up to date events please visit us here!

  • Cabernet Sauvignon
  • Great Views
  • Social Distancing Friendly

When you save people money, you tend to get a lot of fans!

Read real customer reviews by clicking here or any of the links below. You can see how our customer service sets us apart. Our personalized recommendations and huge savings are worth every penny.

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  3. Rutherford Hill Winery • Wine Tastings, Tours, Reviews & Events

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COMMENTS

  1. Rutherford Hill Winery

    ATV & Cave Tour Ride up the hill to our Estate Vineyard to take in the expanse of the Rutherford Bench and learn about our sustainable farming practices. Afterward, cruise back down for a tour of our mile-long wine caves. This experience is topped by a tasting of reserve-tier wines served alongside a cheese and charcuterie pairing.

  2. Rutherford Hill Winery

    Enjoy the best of Rutherford Hill delivered to your doorstep throughout the year by joining one of our three wine clubs. Our wine club opens the door to exclusive access to new and limited wines, complimentary experiences from cave tours to picnics, exclusive wine club events and much more! "Rutherford Hill was the perfect setting for our day ...

  3. Rutherford Hill Winery

    Join us for a brand new, all-access ATV vineyard and cave tour! Ride up the hill to our Estate Vineyard to take in the expanse of the Rutherford Bench and learn about our sustainable farming practices. Afterward, cruise back down for a tour of our mile-long cave complex. This experience is topped by a tasting of reserve tier wines alongside a cheese and charcuterie pairing. Please note, we are ...

  4. Rutherford Hill Winery

    Rutherford Hill Winery. We invite you to join us for an unparalleled wine country experience. Nestled high in the Eastern Hills, Rutherford Hill Winery commands spectacular views overlooking the Rutherford bench of Napa Valley. Enjoy them-along with a glass of your favorite varietal-from our ever popular Oak Grove picnic grounds, or tour our ...

  5. Rutherford Hill Winery • Wine Tastings, Tours, Reviews & Events

    Plan a trip to Rutherford Hill Winery in Napa Valley, California. See reviews, book wine tastings, wine tours and find information on events and hours.

  6. Rutherford Hill Winery

    Rutherford Hill Winery's hilltop property, located alongside Silverado Trail in the Rutherford AVA, takes you high above the valley floor. Your dream day in wine country awaits! Founded in 1972, Rutherford Hill Winery is a pioneer in the development of California Merlot. The grape growers who founded Rutherford Hill carefully studied the geography of the region and capitalized on climate and ...

  7. Rutherford Hill Winery

    Take a tour of our nearly mile-long caves and end your afternoon with a picnic in our oak grove or lounging in our luxury cabanas. Current releases, library wines and large format bottles are available for purchase, as well as distinctive gifts. 200 Rutherford Hill Road. United States, California. 94573. www.rutherfordhill.com.

  8. Rutherford Hill Winery: A Guide to Napa Valley's Iconic Estate

    Take Silverado Trail south and turn left on Rutherford Hill Road to find the winery's tasting room. Visitors can learn about the winemaker, the caves, and the views from this luxury wine destination in Napa Valley. Rutherford Hill Winery offers tours, tastings, and events, making it a perfect destination for wine enthusiasts.

  9. Interesting Cave Tour

    Rutherford Hill Winery: Interesting Cave Tour - See 288 traveler reviews, 135 candid photos, and great deals for Rutherford, CA, at Tripadvisor.

  10. Winery tour and tasting

    Rutherford Hill Winery: Winery tour and tasting - See 286 traveler reviews, 134 candid photos, and great deals for Rutherford, CA, at Tripadvisor.

  11. Rutherford Hill Winery

    Rutherford Hill guests can now enjoy a communal tour Thursday - Sunday! During this 60-minute walking tour, guests will stroll our beautiful property and learn about Rutherford Hill's history and its unique winemaking process. You will taste through a total of 5 wines that showcase Rutherford Hill's diverse wine portfolio. A $30 deposit is required for active Club Members, refundable upon ...

  12. Rutherford Hill Winery

    Specialties: We invite you to join us for an unparalleled wine country experience. Nestled high in the Eastern Hills, Rutherford Hill Winery commands spectacular views overlooking the Rutherford bench of Napa Valley. Enjoy them-along with a glass of your favorite varietal-from our ever popular Oak Grove picnic grounds, or tour our extensive hillside wine caves, carved deep into the cliffs ...

  13. Rutherford Hill Winery

    May 11, 2024 - We invite you to join us for an unparalleled wine country experience. Nestled high in the Eastern Hills, Rutherford Hill Winery commands spectacular views overlooking the Rutherford bench of Napa V...

  14. Rutherford Hill Winery Tours

    Explore Rutherford Hill Winery when you travel to St. Helena! Find out everything you need to know and book your tours and tickets before visiting Rutherford Hill Winery.

  15. Rutherford Hill Winery

    Rutherford Hill Winery (founded 1972) is located about a mile east off of Silverado Trail at the end of the same road that winds past the luxurious Relais & Châteaux Auberge du Soleil hillside resort & spa. Rutherford Hill's motto is "Life looks better from Rutherford hill" and could easily be "Life looks better from Rutherford Hill drinking Merlot"! This winery is a leader in the ...

  16. Rutherford Hill Winery, St. Helena, CA

    Rutherford Hill Winery, established in 1972, provides wine tasting opportunities and cave tours with picturesque views in a hilltop setting. This winery is situated within the Napa Valley region, which spans 30 miles by five miles and accommodates over 500 wineries across six towns - including Napa, Yountville, Oakville, Rutherford (the location of Rutherford Hill Winery), St. Helena and ...

  17. Excellent wine tasting tour

    Rutherford Hill Winery: Excellent wine tasting tour - See 288 traveler reviews, 135 candid photos, and great deals for Rutherford, CA, at Tripadvisor.

  18. Rutherford Hill Winery

    Rutherford Hill Winery. We invite you to join us for an unparalleled wine country experience. Nestled high in the Eastern Hills, Rutherford Hill Winery commands spectacular views overlooking the Rutherford bench of Napa Valley. Enjoy them-along with a glass of your favorite varietal-from our ever popular Oak Grove picnic grounds, or tour our ...

  19. Rutherford Hill Winery

    Rutherford Hill Winery. We invite you to join us for an unparalleled wine country experience. Nestled high in the Eastern Hills, Rutherford Hill Winery commands spectacular views overlooking the Rutherford bench of Napa Valley. Enjoy them-along with a glass of your favorite varietal-from our ever popular Oak Grove picnic grounds, or tour our ...

  20. Top 8 Rutherford Wineries to Visit

    Spend two days tasting Rutherford's famous cabernet sauvignons, as well as fantastic red Bordeaux-style blends, at the AVA's top wineries.

  21. Rutherford Hill Winery

    Our portfolio of world-class Rutherford Hill wines includes Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and other wines produced from grapes grown in an array of carefully selected estate vineyards.

  22. Rutherford Hill Winery

    Founded in 1972, Rutherford Hill Winery is a pioneer in the development of California Merlot. The grape growers who founded Rutherford Hill carefully studied the geography of the region and capitalized on climate and soil conditions that resembled those of Pomerol, the small but distinctive Merlot-growing region of Bordeaux. What a promising discovery that was - one that was borne plenty of ...

  23. THE 10 BEST Rutherford Wineries & Vineyards

    Top Rutherford Wineries & Vineyards: See reviews and photos of Wineries & Vineyards in Rutherford, California on Tripadvisor.