2021 · Merlot

Family-owned Rutherford Hill, established in 1972, is based on a hilltop in Napa Valley’s Rutherford AVA and was among the region’s early pioneers of Merlot. Now owned by the Terlato family, the winery focuses on age-worthy, limited-release Bordeaux-style reds, particularly Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, made from carefully selected parcels and aged in French oak. Its mile-long cave system provides natural conditions for maturation. Sustainability is central to the estate, which is Napa Green and California Sustainable Winegrowing Alliance certified, operates on 100% solar power, and uses regenerative farming, owl boxes, and other eco-friendly vineyard practices.