The Rutherford AVA, situated in the heart of Napa Valley, has long been a highly respected, almost magical appellation known for producing some of the best wines anywhere. A relatively small growing area that spans the Napa Valley floor between the Mayacamas and Vaca Mountain ranges, the grapes here receive more sun during the growing season than other areas while enjoying a long growing season filled with warm days and cool nights.
This AVA is famously noted for its “Rutherford dust,” detected from the soft, round mouthfeel that reveals a tannin-induced “dustiness.” The actual cause of this singular aspect is the unique terroir comprising a combination of somewhat diverse microclimates and the area’s gravel, loam, and sandy soils.
The Rutherford AVA has long been the perfect source for the highest-quality single vineyard wines, particularly Cabernet Sauvignon, perfect for any wine and food pairing.
Georges III Vineyard Origin
The Georges III Vineyard has a long and successful history in Napa Valley. At the core of the Rutherford AVA, this vineyard is one of the Beckstoffer Heritage Vineyards, a vital source of grapes for one of the elite J.H. Wheeler Cabernet Sauvignon single vineyard wines.
Not a recent start-up by any means, vines in parts of the Georges III vineyard were first planted by Mrs. Thomas Rutherford in 1895. The parcel was later purchased by Beaulieu founder Georges de Latour in 1928 and was named Beaulieu Vineyard #3.
From the outstanding grapes grown in this vineyard, famous Beaulieu winemaker, Andre Tchelistcheff, produced highly acclaimed Cabernet Sauvignon single vineyard wines that would place now famous Beaulieu Vineyards and Napa Valley at the forefront of wine quality.
Beckstoffer Heritage Vineyards Purchases Georges III
In 1988, always on the lookout for historic vineyards that produce outstanding wines, Beckstoffer Vineyards added the now-called Georges III Vineyard to their lineup of high-end vineyards.
To enhance the quality further and to improve yields, the Beckstoffer Team replanted the vineyard with new Cabernet Sauvignon clones with a more advanced trellis system.
Single vineyard wines produced from the grapes of this important vineyard are ranked among the highest in the world, as judged by Wine Spectator, Wine Advocate, and others, receiving ratings of 90+ Points for Cabernet Sauvignons from a host of Napa Valley wineries.
The limited production, available-to-members-only 2018 J.H. Wheeler Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Georges III Vineyard vintage sold out quickly, while thirsty customers look forward to future vintages.
Tasting Notes:
“Explosive nose of black currant, boysenberry, black plum, smoke, cedar, roasted coffee bean. The full, lush palate, with firm finely textured tannin, acid that ties it all together through the long finish.”
Wheeler Farms: Your Next Wine Tasting Destination
For your next memorable wine tasting experience that includes carefully curated wine and food pairing, visit Wheeler Farms in centrally located St. Helena.
Located at one of Napa Valley’s historic wine estates, Wheeler Farms was initially begun by the famous Wheeler Family in the 1880s. Today the Wheeler Farms winemakers celebrate the bounty of Napa Valley with a lineup of award-winning, single vineyard wines.
The J.H. Wheeler Wine Experience is a culinary adventure that includes complimentary wine and food pairing of four delicious wines plus seasonal savory canapés specially prepared by Estate Chef Tom Harder.
Guests at the Wheeler Farms Hospitality House will also be treated to a tour of the estate gardens, orchard, and on-premises vineyard.
To reserve your place for a future wine and food pairing and tastings of the J.H. Wheeler single vineyard wines, visit the Wheeler Farms website.
Also, while visiting the Wheeler Farms website, you can learn more about Wheeler Farms Membership for the Epicurean. You will see information about the many benefits, complimentary wine and food pairings, special single vineyard wine releases, and the levels of participation.