NAPA, CA (August 29, 2023) – Established in 1947, fourth generation family owned and operated Terlato Wine Group (TWG) today announced a complete relaunch and repositioning of their iconic brand, Rutherford Hill Winery, referring to it as “Rutherford Hill, Reimagined”.
Rutherford Hill Winery, founded in 1972, is a pioneer in the development of California Merlot. Fifty years ago, the grape growers who founded Rutherford Hill carefully studied the geography of the region and capitalized on climate and soil conditions that resembled those of Pomerol, the small but distinctive Merlot-growing region of Bordeaux. Today, Merlot remains the flagship varietal at Rutherford Hill.
Charmed by the property and its founding, industry trailblazers — the Terlato family — purchased the winery in 1996, realizing Anthony Terlato’s long-term dream of becoming a family vintner. The world-class estate features state-of-the-art equipment, including a ‘Winery Within a Winery’, an extensive mile long cave system, and renowned vineyard sourcing across the Napa Valley.
Bill Terlato, President and CEO of Terlato Wine Group, and who led the acquisition of Rutherford Hill and said, “As we celebrate our 50th Anniversary, we are proud to say quality has always been, and remains, our primary driving force. We are very pleased with all aspects of the project and wanted to honor our late father’s memory and passion for the Rutherford Hill brand, ensuring we preserve our commitment to quality for generations to come.”
Vineyards – As all winemakers will attest, “exceptional wine begins in the vineyard”. Terlato is fortunate to have several estate vineyards in the Napa Valley AVA, including a 10-acre, hillside plot adjacent to the winery that provides outstanding Cabernet Sauvignon. In 2002, the Terlato family purchased a 60-acre vineyard nestled in the heart of the Rutherford AVA which produces exceptional Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Sauvignon Blanc. The latter vineyard was recently dedicated as the “Anthony J. Terlato” Estate Vineyard, commemorating Mr. Terlato’s legacy in Napa Valley, which started with his acquisition of Rutherford Hill in the 1990’s. It is only fitting that the full brand relaunch would begin in the vineyard.
Winemaking – Michael Coode joined Rutherford Hill in 2022 as Winemaker. Coode Grew up in South Africa and Australia earning a Masters of Wine Business and Bachelor of Applied Science in Wine. Throughout his career, Coode gained invaluable experience at several world-renowned wineries including Chateaux Margaux in Bordeaux, Paul Jaboulet, Aîné in the Rhône Valley, Inglenook in Napa Valley, Inniskillin in Niagara, and Wolf Blass in Adelaide. Coode’s main objective at Rutherford Hill is to make world-class wines from these exemplary vineyards.
Branding & Packaging – Terlato joined forces with award-winning advertising agency Denomination, to revamp the entire brand including architecture, positioning, logo, bottle design, ecommerce, advertising and POS materials. The new branding continues to represent values such as tradition, elegance and discernment but is now more grounded in today’s modern lifestyle.
According to Sandra LeDrew, Winery President and TWG COO, “As we approached Rutherford Hill’s 50th anniversary, we knew we had to honor the legacy of this iconic brand and truly give it the attention it deserved. This was a methodical and very thoughtful process because we wanted to take the time necessary to get it right, literally from the ground up. My team and I are very proud of the end result, and it’s been an honor for us to have participated in the evolution of such a recognizable and well-loved brand.”
Revolutionary Label Design – A classic brand meets modern tradition. Clean, enlarged labels add packing gravitas and modernity. The RH monogram adds elegance and status. The label’s texture adds an artisanal look and feel. The gold foil is sophisticated and eye-catching. Embossing and debossing evokes craftmanship and attention to detail.
AJT Estate Cabernet Sauvignon – A sleek and velvety style with enticing cassis, raspberry and blueberry notes laced with a hint of the Rutherford dust edge carrying a polished finish interwoven with hints of minerality and tobacco. SRP – $65
AJT Estate Sauvignon Blanc – A tropical, crisp style oozing with ruby grapefruit, rock melon and lime. The rich fruits are matched with vibrant acidity and the core of tropical and citrus notes eases into a long and supple finish. SRP – $34
Napa Valley Merlot – A rich, smooth style delivering cherry, plum and savory spice. Balanced soft tannins with a bright line of acidity deliver an elegant, silky finish, providing a much more elevated style than most Merlots in the market. SRP – $40
Point of Sale Materials – “Unearth the Greatness” creative allows shoppers to escape into a cradle of Luxury Napa wines. The inviting, open cellar doors lead shoppers into the mystical destination of Rutherford Hill’s Winery & Estate Vineyards.
Enhanced Guest Experiences – Perched high atop a sun-dappled hillside in the heart of the Napa Valley, Rutherford Hill Winery’s breathtaking panoramic views overlook historic vineyards, set against a magnificent backdrop. The bucolic, sustainably farmed estate is nestled amongst majestic oak trees & 200 heritage olive trees, many of which are over 100 years old. Coming in Summer of 2024, Rutherford Hill will reveal a series of spectacular winery renovations and enhanced guest experiences. These ultra-modern spaces will allow for unsurpassed, 360˚ views in a magical, parklike setting.
