2022 J.O. Sullivan Founder’s Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon from Rutherford, Napa Valley

2022 J.O. Sullivan Founder’s Reserve Merlot

The 2022 vintage reflects both the resilience of the season and the precision of the Sullivan Rutherford Estate. Harvested largely before Napa Valley’s September heatwave, it offers layered aromas of brambleberry, plum, and violets with hints of espresso and wild herbs. Dark cherries and blueberries fill the palate with a velvet texture, supported by integrated tannins that extend into a long, commanding finish. This wine captures the estate’s unique terroir and mastery of Merlot, delivering depth and elegance that can be enjoyed now or cellared for years to come.

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    Vintage Summary

    The 2022 growing season unfolded under mild conditions, setting the stage for what appeared to be a textbook harvest. But nature had a twist in store. In early September, Napa Valley faced a dramatic heatwave, with temperatures soaring above 110°F for over five consecutive days. Thanks to the estate’s naturally lower yields, most of our blocks had already achieved optimal physiological ripeness as the heatwave approached. This timing proved pivotal, allowing us to act decisively and harvest 80% of the estate’s fruit before the extreme heat could compromise quality. The resulting wines are a testament to precision and resilience.

    Sommeliers male hold glass red wine tasting degustation cardgrapes used for wine

    Winemaker Notes

    Deep, dark, and unapologetically rich, it delivers layer after layer of intensity. Brambleberry, ripe plums, and crushed violets hit first, followed by a brooding mix of espresso, graphite, and wild herbs. The palate is full-bodied and commanding, with a seamless, almost velvet-like texture. Dark cherries and blueberries saturate the mid-palate, while finely integrated tannins carry a long, structured finish. Generous yet deeply rooted, this Merlot isn’t just about fruit—it’s got depth, power, and a presence that demands attention.

    Event 3Outdoor wine tasting table set at Sullivan Rutherford Estate in Rutherford, California

    Details

    • Appellation

      Rutherford

    • Vineyard

      Sullivan Rutherford Estate

    • Varietals

      86% Merlot
      11% Cabernet Sauvignon
      3% Cabernet Franc

    • Production

      500 cases

    • Winemaker

      Jeff Cole

    • Barrel Aging

      22 months
      80% New French Oak

    • Alcohol

      14.8%

    Guest evaluating red wine during the Founder’s tasting at Sullivan Rutherford Estate in Rutherford, CaliforniaWine Glass