2018 Etude Cabernet Sauvignon Rutherford
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Tasting notes
The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Rutherford is more medium-bodied, with a charming, supple, spice-laden character that's already drinking nicely. Red and black currants, spicy oak, tobacco, and dried herbs are some of its nuances, and it has balance, present yet ripe tannins, and outstanding length. Give it a year or two and enjoy over the following 15.
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Average Score
Jeb Dunnuck
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
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My favorite of the Etude Cabs in this report is the 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Rutherford, sourced from the Gary Morisoli Vineyard. Featuring scents of dusty earth and red berries, those elements are followed by a full-bodied, wonderfully lush, richly textured palate, then cassis and dark chocolate notes on the finish. This epitomizes plush valley-floor fruit—drinkable now, with as much as two decades of enjoyment ahead.
Etude's 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Rutherford (from Morisoli) is bright and effusive, in a style that is perhaps a bit more medium in body than most years, when the wine is often a bit bigger in size. Even so, the Rutherford Cabernet delivers tons of character and plenty of persistence. Black cherry, plum, chocolate, spice, new leather and incense build into the potent, virile finish. The Rutherford Cabernet is a bit reserved, but full of personality.