Bob Pestoni and his wife Sylvia were presented with a rare opportunity about twenty years ago.  A small winery adjacent to their family´s Rutherford property had become available for purchase. The pair had not been interested in becoming vintners before, but this was a chance to carry on the legacy of Bob’s father and grandfather who had made hand-crafted, artisanal wines for years.  That was the beginning of Rutherford Grove Winery and they’ve be producing fine wines ever since.  Here is what our tasting panel thought of a few of their current releases.

 

Rutherford Grove 2009 Estate Sangiovese

Grape(s): 100% Sangiovese

Region: Napa Valley

Price: 30-35

Review:

Aromas of cherries and blackberries meld with suggestions of herbs and toasty oak on the nose.  A sip reveals flavors of black cherry and blackberry with accents of leather, anise, and spice.  A supple red with bright fruit flavors, fans of richer, fuller Sangioveses will enjoy this bottle. 300 cases produced.

Rating: 89

Rutherford Grove 2011 Sauvignon Blanc

Grape(s): 100% Sauvignon Blanc

Region: Napa Valley

Price: 15-20

Review:

A bouquet of tropical and citrus fruit with a few suggestions of herbs and earth rises up from a glass. The palate reveals flavors of pineapple, melon, and grapefruit accented by a few floral and mineral hints. Fairly round for a Sauvignon Blanc, fans of full, rich whites will enjoy this bottle. 550 cases produced.

Rating: 89

Quackenbush 2009 Zinfandel

Grape(s): Zinfandel & Petite Sirah

Region: Lake County

Price: 15-20

Review:

Aromatics of plums, raspberries, and cherries mingle with notes of pepper and sweet spice on the nose. Flavors of plum and raspberry come together with suggestions of pepper and herbs on the palate.  A smooth slightly spicy red, fans of easy-going Zins with moderate earthy and spicy notes will enjoy this bottle.

Rating: 88