Winemaker Notes
The 2005 Rudd Oakville Estate Proprietary Red covers the broadest spectrum of flavors to date, combining dark, blue fruits such as black currant and dark berry aromas, and cedar on the nose. The palate shows structure and acidity followed by layers of velvety tannins with chocolate and deep roasted coffee. It ably carries our tradition of producing wines with exceptional power, depth and clarity. While it certainly can be enjoyed now, this wine will gain even more complexity in 2-3 years ofcellaring and will last for decades.
Professional Ratings
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
The 2005 Oakville Estate Proprietary Red turned out to be a final blend of 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Cabernet Franc, and the rest Malbec, Merlot, and Petit Verdot. There are around 2,300+ cases of this wine, which has a deep ruby/purple color and a beautifully sweet nose of blueberry and blackberry fruit intermixed with some burning embers, spring flowers, cedar, and subtle wood. It is full-bodied and dense, with hints of espresso roast and chocolate in the mouth. Precise, pure, and rich, it is a beauty that I think will age for at least two or more decades.
One of the world’s most classic and popular styles of red wine, Bordeaux-inspired blends have spread from their homeland in France to nearly every corner of the New World. Typically based on either Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot and supported by Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Petit Verdot, the best of these are densely hued, fragrant, full of fruit and boast a structure that begs for cellar time. Somm Secret—Blends from Bordeaux are generally earthier compared to those from the New World, which tend to be fruit-dominant.
Home to some of the most sought-after Cabernet Sauvignon in America, Napa Valley’s Oakville district stretches across the center of Napa's valley floor and foothills between the Vaca and Mayacamas Mountains. This AVA is home to the legendary To Kalon Vineyard and Martha's Vineyard, as well as many powerhouse wineries including Screaming Eagle, Silver Oak, Robert Mondavi, Opus One, Far Niente and Groth.
The climate is generally warm and agreeable, resulting in year after year of favorable vintages. Summer days see a gentle tug of war between warmer inland air and the cool air coming in from the San Pablo Bay, creating an ideal environment to grow red varieties. Oakville's diverse soils, namely ancient sea bedrock, clay and gravel, are well-drained, and perfect for high-caliber viticulture.
Cabernet here is often bottled varietally but is also popular in Bordeaux Blends. Oakville wines are known for their silky, sensual textures, structured tannins, dark and brooding fruit and lovely aromatics. These age-worthy and prestigious wines are favored by collectors throughout the world.