“It takes Rutherford Dust to grow great Cabernet Sauvignon.”
André Tchelistcheff may have said this in jest, but for many fans of the varietal, it’s doctrine. Although not directly attributable to the dust in the soil of the AVA, that certain something is unique to the region’s terroir overall. Most commonly described as having soft, cocoa-powder tannins, the wines are elegant and age extremely well.
Renowned for his expertise in modern winemaking – and for his generous nature – everyone from winemakers to journalists sought André’s advice. In 1948, he held a tasting with a group of Rutherford winemakers. His goal was to collectively examine the region’s wines. He believed that together they could learn to make the most of the Rutherford terroir, particularly the Dust, and raise the quality standard for everyone.
Befitting the winery that coined the term, BV’s a founding member of the Rutherford Dust Society whose mission is to protect this precious land and introduce its magnificent wines to new generations of fans.
Beaulieu Vineyard
Ranches
We source grapes from our own Napa Valley estate vineyards and Carneros vineyards, along with a number of high-quality growers across the regions. However, three of our vineyards, BV Ranches 1, 2, and 8, remain our most significant, and the closest to our hearts.
BV Ranch #1
Purchased in 1903, this 128-acre property in the heart of the Rutherford AVA lies next to our winery and encompasses the original 4-acre “beau lieu” where BV began. The vineyard is planted to Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Petit Verdot. Sited on the Rutherford bench, its wide variety of alluvial soils fosters exceptional quality in these Bordeaux-style varietals. The well-draining gravel loam soils allow for deep rooting and the development of grapes with complex flavors.
BV Ranch #2
Georges and Fernande de Latour purchased Ranch #2 in 1907. Located on the southern Rutherford bench, it’s planted mostly to Cabernet Sauvignon. The optimal sun exposure and regular morning fog allow for a long, even growing season. The vineyard is known for producing full-bodied, concentrated wines which highlight the appellation’s signature Rutherford Dust.
BV Ranch #8
A vineyard in the Los Carneros AVA that's known for producing Chardonnays with aromas of stone fruit, citrus, and floral notes.
