Our 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon from the Gary Morisoli Vineyard is showing one of the deepest expressions of color that I have seen in years. While rich, dark-colored clusters are to be expected from Gary’s vines, the intensity of this wine’s hue is very likely amplified from the years of drought in California—definitely more boldly dense than previous vintages. 

WOW! This is a big, full Cabernet that balances power with richness and finesse, brilliantly expressing multiple layers of sweet dark fruits, dusty dark chocolate and spice. Abundant blackberry and black cherry are perfectly laced with hints of cinnamon, cedar and sweet vanilla spice, offering up a wonderful plushness. Cunning notes of the famed “Rutherford dust” build the character expected of wines from this vineyard, being located in what I believe is the sweet spot of the Rutherford Appellation. 

Flavors are bold, dense and very focused for a Rutherford Cabernet. Lush, forward fruit flavors are somewhat restrained, yet unfold generously and with intricate complexity. Plentiful layers of blackberry and black cherry develop as the wine expands liberally on the palate. This vintage is beautifully proportioned, dense and chewy, and delivers a layering of currant, spice and sweet Baker’s chocolate. A lengthy finish with long, fine-grained tannins will carry this Rütz Morisoli Rutherford into the next decade and more. 

While it can be enjoyed now with generous decanting, this vineyard-designate Cabernet will age gorgeously, rewarding you with cellaring into the next 20 years. 

Keith Rutz - Proprietor