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Rutherford Hill Winery: A Merlot Pioneer with Cave Majesty

Discover Rutherford Hill Winery: Napa Valley's Merlot pioneer with stunning views and captivating cave tours.

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Nestled in the heart of Napa Valley's Rutherford AVA, Rutherford Hill Winery stands as a testament to Merlot's potential in California. Founded in 1972, the winery boasts stunning views, extensive wine caves, and a legacy of crafting exceptional wines that capture the essence of the Rutherford Bench.

A brief summary to Rutherford Hill Winery

  • Monday 10 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-5 pm
  • Friday 10 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Book your tour or tasting in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure availability.
  • Take advantage of the picnic area and bring your own lunch to enjoy with a bottle of Rutherford Hill wine.
  • Consider the ATV Vineyard Tour for a unique and adventurous way to experience the estate.
  • Check the winery's website for special events, blending seminars, and other unique experiences.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From the Silverado Trail, turn west onto Rutherford Hill Road. Follow Rutherford Hill Road for approximately one mile. The winery will be at the end of the road. Parking is available on-site, though it can be limited during peak season. Consider arriving early or carpooling. Parking is free.

  • Public Transport

    The VINE Transit Route 10, the Upvalley Connector, stops at Highway 29 and Rutherford Road. From there, you can take a taxi or rideshare service to the winery, which is about a 10-minute drive. Taxi/Rideshare estimate is $20-$30. Alternatively, you can walk, which is approximately 3 miles and will take about an hour.

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Discover more about Rutherford Hill Winery

Rutherford Hill Winery, established in 1972, is perched high on a scenic hilltop in the Rutherford region of Napa Valley. Overlooking the famed Rutherford Bench, the winery has earned a reputation for crafting exceptional wines, particularly its signature Merlot. The founders recognized the area's climate and soil similarities to Pomerol, a renowned Merlot-growing region in Bordeaux, France, and pioneered Merlot as one of Napa's premier varieties. The winery boasts one of the largest wine caves in Napa Valley, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the winemaking process. These caves provide an ideal environment for aging wines, maintaining a consistent temperature and humidity. Guided tours take guests through the caves, sharing insights into Rutherford Hill's history and winemaking techniques. Visitors can also enjoy tastings of the winery's acclaimed portfolio, including current releases and small-lot wines exclusive to the winery. Rutherford Hill offers a variety of experiences to suit different preferences. Guests can opt for a classic tasting experience with panoramic views, an ATV tour of the hillside vineyard, or a more intimate tasting in the underground Cave Lounge. The winery also has picnic areas and a tasting room. The Terlato family acquired Rutherford Hill in 1996 and has continued the winery's commitment to quality, investing in the estate and refining the character and complexity of its wines. Today, Rutherford Hill remains a Napa Valley icon, known for its exceptional Merlot, stunning views, and dedication to sustainable winemaking practices.

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