Blancaneaux Rutherfold - Inglenook

Blancaneaux Rutherfold - Inglenook presents itself in the glass with a deep, radiant ruby red and delicate violet highlights. On the nose, a multilayered bouquet unfolds, featuring sun-ripened apricot, juicy peach and fine lemon zest, accompanied by hints of toasted almonds and a subtle floral note. On the palate, the wine displays an elegant, dense texture; the fruit is precise and clear, while the acidity is taut and invigorating. Fine-grained tannins give the red wine backbone and length without overshadowing its silky character. The style is both powerful and refined, with a concentrated, lingering finish in which stone fruit, citrus spice and a touch of almond creaminess resonate.

The cuvée of Marsanne, Roussanne and Viognier comes from the traditional Napa Valley in the Californian wine-growing region of California (US). The terroir around Rutherford yields grapes with pronounced fruit, clear structure and distinctive depth. The grape varieties combine to create a characterful, dry wine that impressively reflects the distinctive signature of the Inglenook winery. In the glass, it develops into a red wine with the aromatic complexity of a sophisticated white-wine style, captivating discerning connoisseurs.

• Colour: intense ruby red with violet highlights
• Aroma: apricot, peach, lemon, almond, floral nuances
• Taste: dry, fruit-driven, clearly structured
• Texture: silky, with fine tannins
• Origin: Napa Valley, California, USA
• Grape varieties: Marsanne, Roussanne, Viognier
• Alcohol content: 13.5% vol
• Bottle size: 0.75 l, cork closure

1. Intense, clear fruit aromas of stone fruit and citrus
2. Elegant balance of acidity, tannin and creaminess
3. Characterful grape-variety cuvée with a distinct origin profile
4. Award: 92 points from James Suckling
5. W.O. Wine of Origin – guaranteed designation of origin

Production of Blancaneaux Rutherfold by Inglenook

In the heart of Napa Valley, in the prestigious Rutherford subregion, the grapes for Blancaneaux Rutherfold - Inglenook grow under the influence of a warm, sun-filled climate. During the day, the vines develop intense ripeness, while cooler nights focus the aromas and lend them freshness. The soils, consisting of gravelly, well-drained sites with clay and sand content, encourage deep-rooted vines and create a distinctive, mineral-like character.

The harvest is carried out selectively, with rigorous standards applied to grape quality. Ripe, aromatic berries are transported from the vineyard to the winery in small containers, where further selection takes place. Each of the three grape varieties—Marsanne, Roussanne and Viognier—is treated separately so that its individual strengths can shine. The aim is always to create a cuvée with a perfect balance of richness, freshness and aromatic depth.

In the cellar, the winemaking process is guided with great precision. Part of the wine matures in selected wooden barrels, which contribute fine roasted aromas, subtle nuttiness and a creamy texture. Another part remains in neutral vessels to preserve the fruit aromas of apricot, peach, lemon and almond with clarity. Once the separate maturation period is complete, the individual components are carefully blended, resulting in a nuanced, harmonious wine.

The winemaker’s style is strongly focused on elegance, clarity and finesse. Power does not appear as overt opulence, but as concentrated, structured depth. Each grape variety plays its part: Marsanne brings richness and structure, Roussanne contributes aromatic complexity and texture, while Viognier lends fragrant intensity and sensual fruit. The result is a red wine that impressively reveals the terroir of Rutherford and the philosophy of Inglenook.

Serving recommendations for Blancaneaux Rutherfold - Inglenook

At the table, this wine displays impressive versatility. Its pronounced stone-fruit and citrus aromas harmonise superbly with delicately flavoured cuisine. The wine is ideal with light meat dishes featuring Mediterranean herbs, veal loin with lemon jus or poultry with a creamy, subtly nutty sauce. Fine fish dishes, such as pan-fried turbot or skrei with almond butter, also form an intense, elegant pairing with this wine.

Vegetarian dishes likewise provide an appealing setting: baked root vegetables with herbs, risotto with toasted almonds or pasta with lemon and ricotta sauce pick up the wine’s fruit and nut notes. Mature, though not overly powerful, hard cheese or a delicately spiced soft cheese makes a fitting conclusion to a meal.

As an accompaniment for special moments, Blancaneaux Rutherfold - Inglenook lends style to festive occasions, anniversaries and intimate dinners. The wine is equally stimulating at convivial evenings with friends or alongside a multi-course gourmet menu. Its structure and complexity invite exploration, with each sip revealing new facets and nuances.

For the best drinking experience, a serving temperature of approximately 14 to 16 degrees Celsius is recommended. Brief aeration in the glass or in a slender decanter further opens the aromas of apricot, peach, lemon and almond. This allows the wine to present itself even more generously, with an even silkier texture and a longer finish.

When stored in a cool, dark place under consistent conditions, this wine preserves its expressive character for several years. Its structural foundation of fine tannins, lively acidity and densely interwoven fruit points to interesting ageing potential. Over time, more nutty and spicy nuances emerge alongside the stone fruit and citrus, lending the wine additional depth and further refining its elegant personality.

• More products from Inglenook