2019 Inglenook Napa Valley Rutherford Blancaneaux

Inglenook is a famous winery located in California and is known as one of the best wineries in the whole world. The Inglenook winery is 130 years old and has produced only quality wines over the years. To illustrate the high quality of this winery, a nice quote from Gustave Niebaum from 1890 can be used: "I do not intend to make money from my vineyards by producing a lot of cheap wine. I want to make a California wine that is sought after by connoisseurs and can be just as high a price as wines from France, Germany or Spain and I am willing to spend all my money for this result ".

The current production of the domain Inglenook reassembles the production that the wine domain had in its 'Golden era' under the direction of John Daniel. Since Francis Ford Coppola bought the estate, the institution has been the same as it was between 1934 and 1964, pride is above profit and pride is certainly there. The wines made at Inglenook are among the best wines in the world and each year the wines receive high ratings from wine connoisseurs. The organic growing methods used by John Daniel are now being used again, so contraceptives are no longer used to protect the Inglenook vineyards and high quality grapes are being grown again, such as the Cabernet Sauvignon, the Petit Verdot and the Cabernet Franc.

Napa Valley, nestled in the heart of California, stands as a viticultural gem renowned for its rich history, diverse terroir, and world-class wines. Dating back to the late 18th century, Catholic missions in the region were mandated to produce wine for sacramental use, marking the inception of grape cultivation in California. However, early grape growers and winemakers in California faced challenges, and it took time for the region to earn global recognition.

More information about Napa Valley

The turning point came in 1976 when Chateau Montelena and Stag's Leap Wine Cellars from Napa Valley outshone renowned Bordeaux wines at the historic Paris Wine Tasting. This event signaled a shift in perception, boosting respect for California wines, especially those hailing from Napa Valley.

Situated between two mountain ridges converging from south to north, Napa Valley's geography is as breathtaking as it is conducive to winemaking. The narrow eight-kilometer-wide valley is shaped by the Mayacamas Mountains to the west and the Vaca Range to the east, meeting at Calistoga. The Napa River flows through, splitting the two mountain ridges and giving birth to the renowned Napa Valley.

While Napa Valley represents just 5% of annual U.S. wine production, its global reputation is unparalleled. It was not the first American Viticultural Area (AVA), but it holds a special place as a premier wine region. Located in central California, north of San Pablo Bay, the valley boasts a highly variable climate and an abundance of microclimates due to its narrowness and mountainous surroundings.

The unpredictability of Napa Valley wines, unless familiar with the winery, is attributed to its diverse geology. The valley floor consists of marine sediments, volcanic rock, river deposits, silt, limestone, and sandstone, creating a patchwork of soils. From the volcanic soils in the north ideal for Cabernet to calcareous soils in the south perfect for Pinot Noir, the variety of soils and climates foster a dynamic viticultural environment.

With investments pouring in from prominent wine companies, Napa Valley continues to evolve, solidifying its position as a global wine powerhouse, offering a spectrum of wines that showcase the region's diversity, innovation, and unwavering commitment to quality winemaking.

What about Napa valley's subregions?

Napa Valley, renowned as a viticultural paradise, unfolds its vinous tapestry through a collection of distinctive subregions, each contributing unique characteristics to the valley's diverse and celebrated wines. From the rugged terrains of Howell Mountain to the sun-kissed slopes of Atlas Peak, Napa Valley's subregions are a testament to the region's winemaking prowess.

Howell Mountain: Nestled in the northeast, Howell Mountain stands tall as a premier subregion known for its elevated vineyards. The mountainous terrain, with elevations reaching over 1,400 feet, provides a cooler climate, resulting in wines with robust structure and intense flavors. Howell Mountain is celebrated for producing exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Viognier, and Zinfandel.

Calistoga: At the northern tip of Napa Valley lies Calistoga, renowned for its warm temperatures and diverse soils. Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Petite Sirah, and Zinfandel thrive in this subregion. Calistoga's unique terroir imparts a distinct character to its wines, characterized by boldness and depth.

Diamond Mountain District: Known for its volcanic soils and elevated vineyards, Diamond Mountain District is home to some of Napa Valley's most esteemed Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon. The wines from this subregion are recognized for their elegance, structure, and age-worthiness.

Spring Mountain District: Perched on the western side of Napa Valley, Spring Mountain District boasts a diverse mix of grape varieties, including Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Merlot, and Zinfandel. The elevation and varied microclimates contribute to wines of complexity and balance.

St. Helena: At the heart of Napa Valley, St. Helena is a historic subregion that thrives on the cultivation of Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, Viognier, and Zinfandel. St. Helena's wines often showcase a harmonious blend of power and finesse.

Rutherford: Rutherford, with its iconic dusty terroir, is synonymous with some of Napa Valley's most celebrated Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Zinfandel. The well-drained soils and warm climate contribute to wines known for their structure and longevity.

Oakville: Situated between Rutherford and Yountville, Oakville is recognized for its exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Sauvignon Blanc. The subregion's gravelly soils and optimal climate create wines of finesse and concentration.

Atlas Peak: The elevated slopes of Atlas Peak, on the eastern side of Napa Valley, are dedicated to growing Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay. The cooler temperatures and volcanic soils contribute to wines with vibrant acidity and expressive flavors.

Stag's Leap District: Stag's Leap District, known for its dramatic palisades, specializes in Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Merlot, Sangiovese, and Sauvignon Blanc. The unique climate and soil combination result in wines recognized for their elegance and finesse.

Yountville: South of St. Helena, Yountville is celebrated for its Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. The subregion's climate, influenced by its proximity to the San Pablo Bay, lends itself to wines with a balanced and approachable style.

Mount Veeder: Perched on the southwestern side, Mount Veeder produces outstanding Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Merlot, and Zinfandel. The mountainous terrain and volcanic soils contribute to wines of depth and concentration.

Oak Knoll District: Known for its moderate climate, Oak Knoll District produces a diverse array of wines, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Merlot, Riesling, and Sauvignon Blanc. The balanced conditions create wines that showcase both elegance and structure.

Coombsville: In the southeastern part of Napa Valley, Coombsville is dedicated to Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Merlot, Pinot Noir, and Syrah. The region's cool evenings and volcanic soils contribute to wines with complexity and finesse.

Wild Horse: Focused on Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir, Wild Horse is a subregion that reflects the diversity of Napa Valley's terroir. The wines are known for their expressive fruit character and vibrant acidity.

Each subregion within Napa Valley tells a unique story through its wines, reflecting the interplay of soil, climate, and human expertise. Collectively, they contribute to the rich mosaic that has firmly established Napa Valley as one of the world's premier winegrowing regions.

Viognier is a white grape variety that is mainly planted in the French Rhône Valley. It is the only permitted grape on the steep and famous vineyards of Condrieu. Wine made from Viognier is characterized by its bouquet of soft fruit and flowers, low acidity, strength and it is almost always dry. For a long time it was thought that the Viognier was brought from Dalmatia to Condrieu by the Roman Emperor Probus. Scientific research has recently shown that the origin of viognier must be sought locally.

Viognier is a versatile grape from which different wine styles can be made. It can be fermented and aged in stainless steel for a fresh and refreshing style, or aged in oak barrels to develop more complexity and creaminess. It goes well with many foods due to its aromatic intensity and balanced acidity. It pairs with dishes with rich and creamy sauces, as well as seafood, poultry and spicy dishes such as Thai or Indian.

Viognier, almost exclusively planted in Condrieu, was on the verge of disappearing, but fortunately things turned around in the 1980s. From the second half of the 1980s onwards, appreciation for this grape grew, it became more and more successful and could begin its rise within Condrieu and the peripheral areas. For Condrieu the average production is set at 37 hl/ha. Higher causes a rapid reduction in quality. Viognier is a very aromatic grape, but as a wine grower you must be able to master it very well. A good Condrieu should be picked ripe enough to obtain the typical aroma of apricot and exotic fruit. However, if you pick too ripe, you will lose violets and minerality (due to the granite soil). High quality requires the right interplay between good ripeness and still good freshness. Only then does the viognier from Condrieu reveal its wonderful aromas.