Trevor Sheehan started Balius in 2010, working with Beckstoffer fruit in Rutherford. The grapes for his 2014 come from the Pestoni Vineyard, just east of Highway 29. With its crunchy, tart red fruit, this wine gives an impression of delicacy and finesse before launching into a saturated mouthful of savory tannins. It has Rutherford’s grandeur, a texture that’s complete and complex, the tannins seamlessly integrated into the wine’s dusty refinement. There’s nothing aggressive about it, including the price, which looks like a typo, and warrants purchasing this wine by the case.
- Wine & Spirits Magazine (October 2019), 93 pts & TOP 100 BEST BUYS OF 2019
"This shows the sage and underbrush profile of the vintage, but with a bit more brightness to the fruit, as raspberry and plum coulis flavors emerge from the core. Light graphite, anise and mineral hints streak the finish. Best from 2020 through 2034. 1,900 cases made.—J.M."
"Dull garnet black color. Aromas of dried currant, geranium, and terra cotta dust with a velvety, bright, dry full body and a warming, complex, long roasted figs with chocolate glaze, hoisin sauce, and sandalwood finish with well-integrated, silky tannins and moderate oak. A lovely floral Rutherford Cab with a bountiful bouquet of fruits & spices."