Click here
to see other
Rutz Cellars
reviews.

September 2002 - Wine Enthusiast

The September 2002 Wine Enthusiast Buyer's Guide included reviews of several Rutz Cellars wines. We were very pleased to appear in the guide, and even more pleased by the scores we received. Two of our wines rated 91 points from the judges, and one scored a gratifying 92 points. Below is the text of the reviews:

      Editor's Choice

Rutz 1999 Maison Grand Cru Chardonnay (Russian River Valley); $25. A rich, balanced Chard, one that impresses with ripeness, wood, and winemaker bells and whistles without tripping into excess. Perfectly ripened peach and pear fruit is nicely offset by oaky notes and just-right acids. The creamy texture is a pleasure, but it's really balance that defines this wine

 
Rutz 1999 Dutton Ranch Chardonnay (Russian River Valley); $30. Lush and appealing, the spicy peach, apple and tropical fruit flavors are nicely highlighted by rich lees and toasted oak. Crisp acids offset the lush flavors perfectly, creating balance and harmony. The wine has an elegant, limpid quality despite its size.

 

      Editor's Choice

Rutz 1999 Dutton Ranch Pinot
Noir (Russian River Valley); $30.
Fleshy and rich. It's like a bite of filet mignon, tender and soft, juicy and chewy, and completely mouthfilling and delicious. Straddles the border between raspberries and tomatoes, with fresh green herbs and oaky nuances. A very fine Pinot.