Explore Morisoli-Borges in the Rutherford Bench of Napa Valley

Nestled at the heart of Napa Valley’s renowned “Rutherford Bench,” the Morisoli Family vineyard stands as a living testament to four generations of unwavering dedication to crafting exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon. Originating in the early 1900s, the Morisoli legacy took root in the western expanse of Rutherford, where their grape cultivation journey began. Today, under the sustainable stewardship of the fourth generation, this vineyard seamlessly blends “old” and “young” Cabernet Sauvignon blocks, each nurtured with meticulous care. The resulting wine eloquently captures the celebrated “dust” character intrinsic to Rutherford, enfolding the palate with its tender, velvety tannins.

Since 1900

The Morisoli Family’s grape-growing journey, dating back to 1900, continues into the present with Mike Morisoli. In 1971, Mike Morisoli’s parents purchased this very vineyard, located on the west side of Highway 29, and just south of Niebaum Lane, continuing the family’s tradition of winemaking excellence. The vineyard transitioned primarily to Cabernet Sauvignon in the late 1980s, with a subsequent smaller redevelopment in 2006.

The Legendary Rutherford Dust

Positioned deep within Napa Valley, the Rutherford Bench emerges as a distinctive American Viticultural Area. Its heart lies in the small town of Rutherford, California, renowned for its picturesque views and quiet charm. Its well-drained soil, a blend of gravel, loam, and sand enriched by volcanic deposits and marine sediments, is a canvas for viticultural artistry.

The Rutherford region offers a complexity mirroring Napa Valley’s own intricate tapestry. A sanctuary for late-ripening grapes nestled in the valley’s core, this deliberate pace imparts finesse and layered character to the wines. Extended growing seasons and diverse microclimates nurture the region’s signature “fine dusty tannins,” accompanied by subtle notes of cocoa powder and dark fruit.

Mike Morisoli and the next generation of the Morisoli family

“Rutherford dust” refers to the fine, dusty tannins found in wines from the Rutherford AVA. These tannins enhance texture, mouthfeel, and aging potential, shaped by the region’s soil, climate, and grape conditions. The concept gained recognition as winemakers and enthusiasts identified a consistent signature across wines produced here.

The Rutherford Dust Society, founded in 1994, promotes the region’s unique wines and preserves its winemaking heritage. Through tastings, events, and education, the society fosters a strong community among local producers and highlights the distinctive qualities of Rutherford Cabernet Sauvignon.

Mike Morisoli with Winemaker Brooks Painter & Castello President Georg Salzner

Limited Production

At Castello di Amorosa, we strive to craft the highest quality Cabernet Sauvignon using only the finest grapes. Mike Morisoli’s Rutherford vineyard exemplifies this standard, producing fruit that results in a beautifully expressive, single-vineyard wine.

This limited-edition 2017 Morisoli-Borges Cabernet offers rich notes of blueberry, blackberry jam, cassis, and graphite, with Rutherford’s hallmark silky tannins. Designed for longevity, it is expected to age gracefully for 20+ years.