S. R. Tonella Cellars, Rutherford Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, California, 2021

Overview of the Wine
It all started with an earthquake. In 1906 after the great San Francisco earthquake, a huge demand for workers to rebuild the city brought Joseph Ponti, Steve’s great uncle, from Italy to San Francisco. Shortly thereafter, Ponti became the superintendent and initial winemaker at the iconic Beaulieu Vineyards in Rutherford, where he stayed for 43 years. He made the first internationally recognized Cabernet Sauvignon from Napa Valley. In 1939 it won a gold medal at the Golden Gate International Exposition for his 1936 Beaulieu Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon. Since that time, Cabernet Sauvignon has become synonymous with Rutherford and Napa Valley. Ponti’s nephew, Steve’s grandfather, Louis Tonella, joined his uncle at Beaulieu when he was just 17 and worked there for several years. Louis inherited from Ponti vineyards located in the Rutherford viticulture region and the tradition continues to today. Grape growing and wine production have been a part of Steve’s life and family history.

Bringing us to the present, we endeavor to continue this heritage and spirit with S. R. Tonella Cellars. Our purpose is simply to make history by crafting the best premium Cabernet Sauvignon and Bordeaux varietals that represent the best of Rutherford and Napa Valley. S. R. Tonella Cellar’s aspiration is that our wine is shared to create some small but memorable piece of history with everyone who crosses paths with us.

Winemaker
Steve Tonella

Grape / Blend
Cabernet Sauvignon

Origin
Napa Valley, California

Winemaker's Tasting Notes 
Aromas of cassis, bramble, dried herbs, dark chocolate and baking spices. Full-bodied with rounded fine tannins and balanced acidity. Rich and persistent, with a long luxurious finish.

93 Points - The Wine Palate
Deep garnet-purple in color, the single-varietal 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Rutherford starts off a little closed and broody before opening out to scents of fresh blackcurrants, tar, and cedar with underlying hints of wild sage and fragrant soil. The medium to full-bodied palate is bright and intense with a lively line and fine-grained tannins to support, finishing with lovely purity. 

91 Points - James Suckling
A firm, chalky and solid red with dark berries, chocolate, dried berries and mild spices on the nose. Full-bodied with firm tannins. Plush with a powdery texture and a firm finish. Try after 2025. 

Product size: 750ml