Ruston Family Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley 2019

Napa Valley cab, for UNDER $40?! I’m listening…with a total production of only 298 cases – this is one extremely rare Napa cabernet! Micro-production, pedigreed vineyards, and world-class winemaking…serious wine at a friendly price! We have loved the Ruston wines for years, and this 2019 cabernet sauvignon is the best we’ve ever tasted from here.

John Ruston is a long-time Napa grape grower, a third-generation farmer, with an absolutely pristine parcel of vines tucked right at the base of the Mayacamas Mountains in Saint Helena. Within a half mile of his 3.6-acre parcel, you’ll find Spottswoode, Andy Beckstoffer’s Las Piedras, David Abreu’s Capella and Madrona Ranch, and the historic Hayne Vineyard. A number of clones used today on Ruston’s property were clippings from just such neighbors, and others, giving this nearly unknown plot the sort of raw material that matches up with any of the great estates here on the west side of Saint Helena.

Add on winemaker Robbie Meyer (Peter Michael, Lewis Cellars, Jericho Canyon, as well as his own project, Pierson-Meyer) and you have the makings of something truly special. This 2019 vintage is a blend of 96% cabernet sauvignon and 4% cabernet franc, with a touch of Oakville and Rutherford grapes thrown in for good measure. It is a sumptuous and complex expression of Napa cab that will easily compete with other wines at three times the price! Bright and lean red and blue fruits – from red currants and raspberries to blueberries and boysenberries – this starts out juicy and robust, with uplifted aromatics of violets, lilacs, and crushed granite rock. The tannins and mouthfeel are structured and powerful, with a round toastiness from time in oak. The finish here is velvety smooth, with a spicy and roasted herb finish extended thanks to that dash of cabernet franc. All in all, there is soooo much to like about this cabernet sauvignon – but the PRICE! That really takes it all to a whole ‘nother level! If you’ve ever had these wines, you just know… a true off-the-radar production that connoisseurs love – all at our spectacular price!