In January 2020, Chateau Smith Haut Lafitte owners Florence and Daniel Cathiard took the leap of faith and made their first foray outside of France: Cathiard Vineyard. Anyone who has visited Napa Valley is likely to have driven along Zinfandel Lane. Driving West up towards the foothills of the Mayacamas, things get quiet pretty fast and the views get more stunning. Climbing into the hillsides, the very last property on this section of the road is Cathiard Vineyard.

The estate includes around 250 acres of land, 58 of which planted to vine, the rest is pure nature of woods, lakes and clearings, home to majestic mountain lions. The partly sloped vineyard extends up to an altitude of 1000 feet and includes mature and young vines. The vineyards are broken down into 14 blocks, some of them on the St Helena alluvial fan, the rest on the steep Rutherford hillside slopes.

Today the winery produces three red wines, all estate fruit and organically farmed. The ridiculously low yields and minimal intervention in the cellar guarantee a strong sense of place. The focus is directed towards finesse, elegance and drinkability. 

The Founding Brothers is produced in homage to James and William Rennie the founders of the original winery on the property and images of both are portrayed on this label. In 1880, the two brothers, said goodbye to their native Scotland and set sail to California with high ambition in Napa Valley.

Tasting Notes: A wine with depth and concentration displaying the true character of Rutherford dust terroir. On the nose, the quintessential Bordeaux blend where both Cab Franc and Merlot are playing their part, dark cherries, green tea leaves and chocolate with hints of eucalyptus. Carries onto the palate and supported with fine, powdery tannins and a long finish.

Made with organic grapes.

Wine Spectator Top 100 of 2023 #98

Varietals: 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc

Region: Napa Valley, California