Harvest
Harvest in the Napa Valley begins in August and typically continues into October. Grapes are picked when they are properly mature, which is based on ideal acid and sugar levels for each specific grape variety. The grapes are picked by hand, enabling the vineyard worker to remove any unripe fruit or other undesirable material from each cluster. Selective picking and careful handling assures that the grapes are delivered to the winemaker in perfect condition. After the grapes arrive at the winery, each load is weighed and inspected.

Blessing The Grapes
A long standing tradition here at Rutherford Wine Company is the annual blessing of the first grapes that we harvest. Winemaker Steve Rued does the honors, and at the beginning of the crush, the entire winemaking team and winery staff toasts to the new vintage of wines.