Inglenook : Rubicon 2019

The complexity and elegance of a Californian red wine

The estate

Located in the Rutherford AVA in Napa Valley, the Inglenook winery was founded in 1879 by Gustave Niebaum, a Finnish captain. The estate's wines swiftly became known for their quality and richness.

From 1975 onwards, Francis and Eleanor Coppola gradually acquired the entire estate with the ambition of turning Inglenook into an emblematic reference for Californian wines. The couple undertook major renovations to the infrastructure and hired the renowned winemaker André Tchelistcheff as a consultant and Philippe Bascaules of Château Margaux to oversee the vinification process.

A pioneering estate in constant search of innovation, Inglenook's uniqueness lies in its unique and authentic expression of fine terroirs through delicate, refined and perfectly-balanced wines. These wines are recognised by many critics, highlighted by the fact that the Inglenook Cabernet Sauvignon 1941 was awarded an impeccable 100/100 score by Wine Spectator in 1990.

The vineyard

Inglenook reigns over a 95-hectare vineyard, which has been certified organic since 1991. The variations in topography of the vineyard reflect the mosaic of terroirs in Napa Valley and contribute to the uniqueness of Inglenook wines. Since 2015 the estate has embarked on an ambitious programme of replanting an average of 2% of the vineyard each year, to ensure the continuous renewal of the vineyard.

The wine

Produced since 1978, Rubicon by Inglenook is a Rutherford wine made from the estate's highest quality parcels. Its name refers to the crossing of the river Rubicon by Julius Caesar in 49 BC.

The vintage

A wet winter was followed by a cool spring, which favoured budburst and early flowering. Although July was cool, the warmer conditions in August and September were ideal for ensuring an even and regular ripening of the grapes.

The blend

Cabernet Sauvignon (81%)

Merlot (11%)

Cabernet Franc (5%)

Petit Verdot (3%)

Inglenook’s Rubicon Rutherford 2019: Characteristics and tasting tips

The tasting

Colour

The colour is a beautiful ruby with purple highlights.

Nose

The nose gradually reveals fruity fragrances (blackberry, black cherry, blackcurrant). When aerated, the bouquet gives off roasted notes as well as clove and blackcurrant buds.

Palate

Harmoniously blending structure and finesse, the palate is seduced by this wine’s silky tannins, its liveliness and its elegance. The palate blends aromas of tobacco, black liquorice and aniseed.