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Exterior of Round Pond Winery in Rutherford, Napa Valley

RUTHERFORD

Home of famous "Rutherford Dust" Cabernet wineries

Among Napa Valley's famed Cabernets, those hailing specifically from the Rutherford area have an especially passionate following.

The unique soil in the Rutherford area, once a riverbed, produces wines in which fruit and herb flavors are tinged with a mysterious, almost spicy element known as "Rutherford dust." Wondering which foods pair best? Learn all about it during a lunch tasting on the terrace at Round Pond Estate.

Known for

The Rutherford Grill, scenic countryside, famous wines with the unique "Rutherford dust" soil

Vibe

Rustic yet refined, comfortable, authentic

Population

164

Once you get to Rutherford

Stay at Rancho Caymus Inn on the valley floor, or at the five-star resort Auberge du Soleil. Auberge du Soleil is one of the most exquisite properties in the valley, with a Michelin-starred restaurant and breathtaking views of the valley below. Try a wine tasting and a picnic at Rutherford Hill Winery. Then check out the historic Inglenook wine estate, purchased by film director Francis Ford Coppola in 1975, which houses a museum dedicated to the history of Inglenook and the birth of cinema. Finish your wine tasting experience at Elizabeth Spencer Winery, in their historic brick cottage or beautiful courtyard.

A little Rutherford history

Rutherford was founded on the nearly 12,000-acre Mexican land grant, Rancho Caymus, which was deeded to early settler George C. Yount from General Mariano Vallejo in 1838. Yount gave a small portion of the grant as a wedding present to his granddaughter, Elizabeth, when she married Thomas Rutherford in 1864, and the family name stuck.

Experience Rutherford

St. Supéry Estate Vineyards and Winery entrance

Rutherford Wineries

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Rancho Caymus Inn, Rutherford, Napa Valley

Rutherford Lodging

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Auberge du Soleil outdoor dining in Napa Valley

Rutherford Restaurants

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Trefethen Family Vineyards from above cropped

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Food and White Wine Pairing in Napa Valley

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BOUTIQUE INNS

Nestled among rolling hills, charming neighborhoods, and storied vineyards are the most charming boutique inns

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HOTELS

From impeccable design to lavish landscapes, Napa Valley hotels have the creature comforts and amenities for you and your loved ones

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RESORTS

A wonderland for grown-ups, Napa Valley resorts cater to outdoor and fitness enthusiasts, bon vivants and those seeking serenity