{"id":13352,"date":"2025-06-19T08:00:19","date_gmt":"2025-06-19T15:00:19","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.napavalley.com\/?p=13352"},"modified":"2026-01-22T09:38:39","modified_gmt":"2026-01-22T17:38:39","slug":"rutherford-wineries","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.napavalley.com\/blog\/rutherford-wineries\/","title":{"rendered":"Top 12 Rutherford Wineries to Visit"},"content":{"rendered":"
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Tucked away between Oakville and St. Helena in Napa Valley, California, the Rutherford<\/a> AVA is a little slice of paradise for those who love a good glass of red. This spot is a haven for Cabernet enthusiasts<\/a> in particular, offering up the kind of full-bodied, luxurious Cabs that put Napa on the map. And for those who like to mix things up, there’s a delightful array of Bordeaux blends (and even sparkling wine!) to keep your taste buds entertained.<\/p>\r\n

When it comes to wine, it’s all about location, location, location. Rutherford’s got a special something in its soil\u2014a magical mix of gravel and sandy loam\u2014that, along with a unique microclimate, gives grapes a longer time to hang and develop flavor. All this leads to wines that boast tannins softened into a smooth, dusty elegance, creating the renowned “Rutherford Dust”\u2014a signature trait that\u2019s become one of the most captivating qualities of Rutherford.<\/p>\r\n

For an unforgettable journey through Napa Valley\u2019s Rutherford region, we\u2019ve put together a short list of some of the best tasting rooms to visit.
\r\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_separator border_width=”2″ el_class=”mid-width”][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_single_image image=”64345″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center” onclick=”custom_link” img_link_target=”_blank” link=”https:\/\/sequoiagrove.com\/?utm_source=wcm&utm_medium=napavalley.com&utm_campaign=content” el_class=”mid-width”][vc_column_text]\r\n

Sequoia Grove<\/h2>\r\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]Sequoia Grove<\/a> might be best known for its stunning tasting room, but it also happens to be steeped in Napa history. Once a part of the original plot of land granted to George Yount, the first person to plant grapevines in Napa, Sequoia Grove now cultivates Bordeaux-style wines from their Rutherford vineyards. Surrounded by a towering thicket of sequoia trees\u2014hence the name\u2014Sequoia Grove aims to rewrite the rules on wine and food pairings, highlighting the versatility of their carefully cultivated Cabernet Sauvignon in particular.<\/p>\r\n

Insider Tip: <\/b>Cabernet Sauvignon lovers will love the Cambium Vertical Tasting. Sip three vintages of Sequoia Grove\u2019s flagship wine, paired with artisan cheeses. The subtle differences in each wine become more obvious with the guidance of a wine expert. Or if you\u2019re curious about unique Cab Sauv food pairings, be sure to reserve a spot at the A Taste for Cabernet experience.<\/p>\r\n

Tasting Fee: <\/b>Starting at $60
\r\nVisit:<\/b> 8338 St. Helena Highway, Napa, CA 94558
\r\nContact:<\/b> 707-339-5757
\r\nReservations: <\/b>Required[\/vc_column_text][vc_separator border_width=”2″ el_class=”mid-width”][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_single_image image=”59106″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center” onclick=”custom_link” img_link_target=”_blank” link=”https:\/\/www.bvwines.com\/en\/visit-experiences.html\/?utm_source=wcm&utm_medium=napavalley.com&utm_campaign=content” el_class=”mid-width”][vc_column_text]\r\n

Beaulieu Vineyard (BV)<\/h2>\r\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]Since being established in 1900 by Georges des Latour, Beaulieu Vineyard<\/a> (or \u201cBV\u201d) has been at the forefront of Napa\u2019s winemaking scene. His dream was to produce wines that could rival those from his homeland of France. For decades, the winery was helmed by the iconic winemaker Andr\u00e9 Tchelistcheff, known affectionately as the “Maestro.” His creation, the Georges de Latour Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, set the standard as Napa’s first cult<\/a> Cabernet and continues to be revered as one of the region’s premier wines.<\/p>\r\n

Insider Tip<\/strong>: Dive into the Discover Rutherford Dust Tasting to see what Tchelistcheff meant when he said, “You need Rutherford dust to grow good Cabernet.”<\/p>\r\n

Tasting Fee:<\/strong> Starting at $20
\r\nVisit: <\/strong>1960 St. Helena Highway, Rutherford, CA 94573
\r\nContact: <\/strong>(707) 257-5749
\r\nReservations:<\/strong> Recommended[\/vc_column_text][vc_separator border_width=”2″ el_class=”mid-width”][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_single_image image=”53789″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center” onclick=”custom_link” img_link_target=”_blank” link=”https:\/\/www.inglenook.com\/?utm_source=wcm&utm_medium=napavalley.com&utm_campaign=content” el_class=”mid-width”][vc_column_text]\r\n

Inglenook<\/h2>\r\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]Since its inception in 1881, Inglenook<\/a> has been a pioneer in Napa, introducing the region’s first Merlot vines and one of the first gravity flow wineries. Since filmmaker Francis Ford Coppola took the reins in 1975, the winery has continued to make a name for itself, especially with its Rubicon estate Bordeaux-style red wine.<\/p>\r\n

Insider Tip<\/strong>: To learn more about the legacy and wines of Inglenook opt for the Private Library Tasting & Tour, a sommelier-led library tasting in the historic Inglenook Chateau.<\/p>\r\n

Tasting Fee:<\/strong> Starting at $75
\r\nVisit:<\/strong> 1991 St. Helena Highway, Rutherford, CA 94573
\r\nContact:<\/strong> (707) 968-1179
\r\nReservations:<\/strong> Required[\/vc_column_text][vc_separator border_width=”2″ el_class=”mid-width”][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_single_image image=”68500″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center” onclick=”custom_link” img_link_target=”_blank” link=”https:\/\/elizabethspencerwinery.com\/?utm_source=wcm&utm_medium=napavalley.com&utm_campaign=content” el_class=”mid-width”][vc_column_text]\r\n

Elizabeth Spencer Winery<\/h2>\r\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]Elizabeth Spencer Winery<\/a> is known for its artisanal, small-production wines, so it only makes sense that their location is equally as unique. Tucked inside an 1872 post office, visitors can sip wine in the lush gardens or in the historic tasting room. There are plenty of fun tastings to take part in, but the Blind Tasting Experience, guided by a seasoned wine educator, will help you fine-tune your senses over four glasses.<\/p>\r\n

Insider Tip: <\/b>A bit of a rarity in Napa, Elizabeth Spencer Winery also offers a non-alcoholic option in their Tea Tasting. Settle in on the outdoor courtyard or Rutherford green with a pot of Oakville Grocery tea and a fresh-baked cookie.<\/p>\r\n

Tasting Fee: <\/b>Starting at $85
\r\nVisit:<\/b> 1165 Rutherford Road, Rutherford, CA 94573
\r\nContact:<\/b> (707) 963-6067
\r\nReservations: <\/b>Recommended[\/vc_column_text][vc_separator border_width=”2″ el_class=”mid-width”][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_single_image image=”47779″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center” onclick=”custom_link” img_link_target=”_blank” link=”https:\/\/www.peju.com\/?utm_source=wcm&utm_medium=napavalley.com&utm_campaign=content” el_class=”mid-width”][vc_column_text]\r\n

PEJU Winery<\/h2>\r\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]This long-time, family-owned winery shines with its classic Bordeaux varietals, including its Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon. Book a Classic Seated Tasting to experience five of PEJU Winery<\/a>\u2019s most popular Napa Valley wines. You can also request a cheese plate and, on the weekends, a Chef\u2019s Sampler to accompany your tasting. Pay a visit here and you may see the matriarch of the family, Herta Peju, digging in the dirt to ensure the roses and dahlias are at their finest.<\/p>\r\n

Insider Tip<\/strong>: Visit the charming, 50-foot tower on property that graces all estate-bottled PEJU labels. It also happens to be one of the tallest buildings in Napa Valley.<\/p>\r\n

Tasting Fee:<\/strong> Starting at $65
\r\nVisit:<\/strong> 8466 St. Helena Highway, Rutherford, CA 94573
\r\nContact:<\/strong> (707) 963-3600
\r\nReservations:<\/strong> Recommended[\/vc_column_text][vc_separator border_width=”2″ el_class=”mid-width”][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_single_image image=”59887″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center” onclick=”custom_link” img_link_target=”_blank” link=”https:\/\/grothwines.com\/?utm_source=wcm&utm_medium=napavalley.com&utm_campaign=content” el_class=”mid-width”][vc_column_text]\r\n

Groth Vineyards & Winery<\/h2>\r\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]Pac-Man would gladly gobble up the award-winning wine at Groth Vineyards & Winery<\/a>. The family-owned vineyard was founded by the former CFO of Atari, and first jumped on the international wine scene when its 1985 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon became the first American wine given 100-points by Robert Parker. The winery sits on a beautiful estate bordering the Rutherford AVA, so while not technically in Rutherford, it\u2019s a worthy spot to visit when venturing around the wineries nearby.<\/p>\r\n

Insider Tip:<\/strong> For a closer look at what Groth is all about, book the Estate ATV Tour. This 90-minute experience will have you venturing into the vines to learn about Groth\u2019s wine philosophy and sustainability efforts, all while sampling varietals surrounded by the vines from which they come from.<\/p>\r\n

Tasting Fee:<\/strong> Starting at $50
\r\nVisit:<\/strong> 750 Oakville Cross Road, Oakville, CA 94562
\r\nContact:<\/strong> (707) 754-4254
\r\nReservations<\/strong>: Required[\/vc_column_text][vc_separator border_width=”2″ el_class=”mid-width”][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_single_image image=”49975″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center” onclick=”custom_link” img_link_target=”_blank” link=”https:\/\/www.roundpond.com\/?utm_source=wcm&utm_medium=napavalley.com&utm_campaign=content” el_class=”mid-width”][vc_column_text]\r\n

Round Pond<\/h2>\r\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]Round Pond Winery<\/a> is a family-owned gem known for its small-lot Cabernet Sauvignon and estate-grown olive oils. The winery’s commitment to artisanal winemaking shines through in every glass, which you can sip from the serene ambiance of the covered patio. Did we mention the panoramic vineyard views? Yeah, they\u2019re photo-worthy.<\/p>\r\n

Insider Tip<\/strong>: Book the Artisan Tasting for an intimate exploration of Round Pond’s premium wines, complemented by a selection of house-made accompaniments. This guided tasting is a perfect way to immerse yourself in the rich flavors and stories of this beloved winery.<\/p>\r\n

Tasting Fee: <\/strong>Starting at $60
\r\nVisit:<\/strong> 875 Rutherford Road, Rutherford, CA 94573
\r\nContact: <\/strong>(707) 302-2575
\r\nReservations:<\/strong> Required[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_separator el_class=”mid-width”][vc_row_inner el_class=”mid-width ad-module-1″ css=”.vc_custom_1763665491265{background-image: url(https:\/\/winecountry-media.s3.amazonaws.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/4\/2025\/06\/30123623\/Peju_TastingExperince-7-scaled-1.jpg?id=68612) !important;background-position: center !important;background-repeat: no-repeat !important;background-size: cover !important;}”][vc_column_inner][vc_raw_html el_class=”gradient-overlay”]JTNDZGl2JTIwY2xhc3MlM0QlMjJvdmVybGF5JTIyJTNFJTNDJTJGZGl2JTNF[\/vc_raw_html][vc_column_text el_class=”text-width”]\r\n

Peju Winery<\/h4>\r\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text el_class=”text-width”]\r\n

Where Wine and Flavor Meet<\/h2>\r\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text el_class=”text-width”]PEJU turns tasting into a full-on culinary moment. Think estate reds, fresh seasonal bites and perfect pairings.[\/vc_column_text][vc_btn title=”Learn More” style=”outline” shape=”square” color=”default” size=”lg” align=”center” i_align=”right” i_type=”material” i_icon_material=”vc-material vc-material-arrow_forward” add_icon=”true” link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Fwww.peju.com%2Fvisit-us%2F%3Futm_source%3Dwcm%26utm_medium%3Dtop-rutherford-wineries-to-visit%26utm_campaign%3Dnativead|title:Peju%20Winery|target:_blank” el_class=”mid-width”][\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][vc_separator el_class=”mid-width”][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_single_image image=”68181″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center” onclick=”custom_link” img_link_target=”_blank” link=”https:\/\/www.mummnapa.com\/?utm_source=wcm&utm_medium=napavalley.com&utm_campaign=content” el_class=”mid-width”][vc_column_text]\r\n

Mumm Napa<\/h2>\r\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]For those who fancy a bit of sparkle, or who simply need a palate cleanser between all that red, Mumm Napa<\/a> is a must-visit in Rutherford. Located on the west side of the Rutherford AVA<\/a>, along the Silverado Trail, Mumm Napa is famous for its m\u00e9thode traditionnelle<\/em> sparkling wines, adding a dash of French flair to California’s Wine Country.<\/p>\r\n

Insider Tip<\/strong>: Don’t miss the Oak Terrace Tasting, where you can savor a flight of exclusive sparkling wines paired with artisan cheeses while taking in the breathtaking views of the vineyards. It epitomizes the quintessential Napa Valley experience.<\/p>\r\n

Tasting Fee:<\/strong> Starting at $45
\r\nVisit: <\/strong>8445 Silverado Trail, Rutherford, CA 94573
\r\nContact:<\/strong> (800) 686-6272
\r\nReservations<\/strong>: Recommended[\/vc_column_text][vc_separator border_width=”2″ el_class=”mid-width”][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_single_image image=”53787″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center” onclick=”custom_link” img_link_target=”_blank” link=”https:\/\/sullivanwine.com\/?utm_source=wcm&utm_medium=napavalley.com&utm_campaign=content” el_class=”mid-width”][vc_column_text]\r\n

Sullivan Rutherford<\/h2>\r\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]Known for world-class Merlots and Cabernet Sauvignons, Sullivan Rutherford<\/a> mixes traditional-style wines with the mastery of today’s finest winemaking techniques. With private tastings available seven days a week by appointment, you’ll revel in this elegant yet comfortable atmosphere of the tasting room, which overlooks the winery\u2019s stunning estate vineyards and gardens. Bring on the serenity.<\/p>\r\n

Insider Tip<\/strong>: Treat yourself to the Founder’s Tasting\u2014a private tour followed by a seated tasting with yummy bites. A wine educator will walk you through the J.O. Sullivan Founder’s Reserve Collection for a truly memorable experience.<\/p>\r\n

Tasting Fee:<\/strong> Starting at $150
\r\nVisit:<\/strong> 1090 Galleron Road, St. Helena, CA 94574
\r\nContact:<\/strong> (707) 963-9646
\r\nReservations:<\/strong> Required[\/vc_column_text][vc_separator border_width=”2″ el_class=”mid-width”][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_single_image image=”68501″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center” onclick=”custom_link” img_link_target=”_blank” link=”https:\/\/www.hallwines.com\/?utm_source=wcm&utm_medium=napavalley.com&utm_campaign=content” el_class=”mid-width”][vc_column_text]\r\n

HALL Rutherford<\/h2>\r\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]Surrounded by the Sacrashe Vineyard, HALL Rutherford<\/a> is the addition to the original St. Helena winery and tasting room, specializing in small-production and single-vineyard wines. This also happens to be the home of the HALL Wine Cave, where guests can indulge in gourmet food pairings and learn more about the aging process. You\u2019ll also have the chance to walk through the Sacrashe Vineyard, where HALL produces many of their 100-point wines.<\/p>\r\n

Insider Tip:<\/b> Experiences are a bit more premium at HALL Rutherford, with two of their three tastings completely private. You\u2019ll receive one-on-one attention from a wine educator who will guide your sips and let you in on the inner workings of HALL\u2019s winemaking on both the Valley View and Platinum Experience.<\/p>\r\n

Tasting Fee: <\/b>Starting at $125
\r\nVisit:<\/b> 56 Auberge Road, Rutherford, CA 94573
\r\nContact:<\/b> (707) 967-2626
\r\nReservations:<\/b> Required[\/vc_column_text][vc_separator border_width=”2″ el_class=”mid-width”][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_single_image image=”64346″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center” onclick=”custom_link” img_link_target=”_blank” link=”https:\/\/www.frogsleap.com\/?utm_source=wcm&utm_medium=napavalley.com&utm_campaign=content” el_class=”mid-width”][vc_column_text]\r\n

Frog\u2019s Leap Winery<\/h2>\r\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]Through the tutelage of Napa greats, owner and winemaker John William\u2019s fueled his love of wine to eventually form the much celebrated Frog\u2019s Leap Winery<\/a>. What started as the Adamson Winery, it stood through phylloxera and Prohibition before being reborn in 1982. With a mission to make wines of terroir using sustainable winegrowing methods like dry farming and cultivating biodiversity, this certified organic Napa winery is particularly known for Cabernet Sauvignon.<\/p>\r\n

Insider Tip: <\/b>For those who want to see behind the veil of Frog\u2019s Leap\u2019s sustainable winemaking practices, book the Responsibly Farmed, Sustainably Produced experience. Cozy up on the Vineyard House porch for a tasting of five current release wines and a chat about their commitment to growing wine the green way.<\/p>\r\n

Tasting Fee: <\/b>Starting at $45
\r\nVisit:<\/b> 8815 Conn Creek Road, Rutherford, CA 94573
\r\nContact:<\/b> 707-963-4704
\r\nReservations: <\/b>Required[\/vc_column_text][vc_separator border_width=”2″ el_class=”mid-width”][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_single_image image=”59234″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center” onclick=”custom_link” link=”\/businesses\/2231\/cakebread-cellars” el_class=”mid-width”][vc_column_text]\r\n

Cakebread Cellars<\/h2>\r\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]Family-owned Cakebread Cellars<\/a> is dedicated to producing wonderful wines with sustainability in mind. With humble beginnings on a small 22-acre plot of land in Rutherford, Cakebread has since grown to 1,600 acres with 16 different vineyards. Settle in to their stunning tasting room to sample their signature Chardonnay<\/a> or bold Cabernet Sauvignons. Be sure to check out The Perfect Pair: Wine & Food Tasting for a culinary adventure that celebrates the winery’s dedication to epicurean delights. You\u2019ll stroll through the vegetable garden before indulging in wine paired with four delicious bites.<\/p>\r\n

Insider Tip<\/strong>: Learn more about Cakebread’s history and sample rare wines in the Reserve Wine Library Tasting. Whether you\u2019re a history buff or a wine connoisseur, you\u2019ll love this experience, which focuses on both red and white varietals, pulled from the Cakebread library and perfectly paired with seasonal dishes made using ingredients plucked from their gardens.<\/p>\r\n

Tasting Fee:<\/strong> Starting at $50
\r\nVisit:<\/strong> 8300 St. Helena Highway, Rutherford, CA 94573
\r\nContact: <\/strong>(800) 588-0298
\r\nReservations<\/strong>: Required[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text el_class=”conclusion”]\r\n

Conclusion<\/h3>\r\n

As you can see, you\u2019re spoiled for choice when it comes to Rutherford wineries! Sip on the iconic Cabernet Sauvignons that Rutherford has become known for or get to know the AVA\u2019s other noteworthy varieties at these wonderful wineries. Simply put: you really can\u2019t go wrong when you combine Rutherford terroir and grapevines.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row]\r\n<\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Spend two days tasting Rutherford\u2019s famous Cabernet Sauvignons, as well as fantastic red Bordeaux-style blends, at the AVA\u2019s top wineries. <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":6,"featured_media":59908,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"templates\/blog-v2.php","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[72,126],"tags":[174,85,111,114,118],"class_list":["post-13352","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-itineraries","category-wineries","tag-cabernet","tag-oakville-rutherford","tag-wine-tasting","tag-wine-tours","tag-wineries"],"aioseo_notices":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.napavalley.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/13352"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.napavalley.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.napavalley.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.napavalley.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/6"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.napavalley.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=13352"}],"version-history":[{"count":16,"href":"https:\/\/www.napavalley.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/13352\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":72398,"href":"https:\/\/www.napavalley.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/13352\/revisions\/72398"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.napavalley.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/59908"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.napavalley.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=13352"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.napavalley.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=13352"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.napavalley.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=13352"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}