About the Wine

The Estate was founded in 1972 by James ("Jim") O’Neil Sullivan, a visionary and pioneer of Rutherford, a premier Napa Valley appellation for Cabernet Sauvignon. Jim's passion for creating great wine predated the 1976 Judgement of Paris which famously recognized Napa Valley wines as among the best in the world. These are the wines that make Napa special and one of the most well-acclaimed regions in the world!

Today, Rutherford is home to some of Napa Valley’s most widely recognized names like BV, Cakebread, Caymus, and Staglin to name a few. The Sullivan Estate lies on the east side of Rutherford (right behind Alpha Omega) and spans over 26 acres, mostly dedicated to vines and lush gardens. The vineyard is planted to Bordeaux varietals like Cabernet, Petite Verdot, and Merlot.

Boutique wineries in Napa have developed a cult following, but you don't hear about it all that much unless you're "in the know." These wines rarely make it to the market because they're often sold exclusively to wine club members at the cellar door. Thankfully, we were able to get our hands on a small allocation of this wine to make available just for you. This is your opportunity to discover the enchantment of a boutique Napa winery!

2019 was a fabulous year for Napa Valley Cabernet. Wine Spectator awarded this year a 97-point score, and Vinous Media gave it 96 points saying that "The 2019 Napa Valley Cabernets have turned out beautifully. 2019 is a very high-quality vintage of Cabernets that will be easy to drink and enjoy with minimal cellaring. The extra kick of late heat softened the tannins, making the wines a pleasure to taste and drink."

Aging: 19 Months in 60% New French Oak

Tasting Notes: 88% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Petit Verdot, 2% Cabernet Franc, and 2% Merlot.The savory elements of dried herbs and dark chocolate have become synonymous with the Coeur de Vigne, defining the unique style and sense of place that is Sullivan Rutherford Estate. Blue and black fruits, such as plum, brambleberry, and blueberry highlight the fruitful essence that adds to the darker aspects of baking spice, black olive, and forest floor. The Coeur de Vigne is a wine for many occasions, but ultimately it is delicious and meant to be enjoyed now through the next 10 years.

Reviews

Blended with 8% Petit Verdot and 2% each of Merlot and Cabernet Franc, this hearty red is brimming in thick tannin, considerable oak, and expansively youthful layers of vanilla, cassis and plum. Impressive in its grasp of both variety and appellation, it is worth cellaring; enjoy best from 2029 through 2034. ~94 Wine Enthusiast

Aromas of mocha chocolate, blackberries and dark spices, followed by a chewy, full-bodied palate with juicy yet tart berries on the center-palate. Tight, rich and extracted.~91 James Suckling

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