Review: 2019 Beaulieu Vineyard Rutherford Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon

By Rob Theakston | July 22, 2024 |

Without diving too deep into subject matters I am by no means an expert – specifically geography, enology, climatology, and soil sciences – there’s a term that gets bandied about with some frequency: “Rutherford Dust.” On the surface, it seems to be a catch-all for anything emanating from the region, but it turns out there is some significant truth to it, and it is not just a marketing gimmick. While it may be a condensed term to convey the science and magic taking place, at least it isn’t excess padding through corporate-created mythology or marketing. As it happens, Rutherford Dust also plays a supporting role in this offering from Beaulieu.

The second release in Beaulieu’s Rutherford Reserve series is a hearty blend of 85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Petit Verdot, and 5% Malbec, aged 21 months in 100% French oak. It brings the vineyard’s A-game from start to finish, with dark fruit and spice complemented by balanced, earthy elements. The nose is filled with wild berry, turned earth, and toasted oak spice, which emerges as it sits in the glass. The palate is classic Cabernet, but the Malbec and Petit Verdot additions make their presence known with cassis and tobacco leaf notes among layers of blackberry, currant, and dark chocolate.

However, it’s during the lingering and lively finish where things take an interesting turn: the black fruit diminishes slightly, allowing notes of cinnamon, clove, and cedar to shine through and provide more depth and intrigue. There is no sign of a sophomore slump with this incredibly approachable, medium-bodied wine that stands up against any other offering from Rutherford Valley. At this point, that almost feels like an expectation from Beaulieu; a testament to the vineyard’s consistency.

Storing this for a few years will require patience and restraint, as it’s ready to drink now. However, those who wait will be handsomely rewarded. It’s an exceptional representation of a California Cab.

A / $85 / bvwines.com