Frog's Leap Winery
Cabernet Sauvignon 2022
Rutherford
Frog’s Leap Cabernet Sauvignon is a classic expression of Rutherford, anchored by dry-farmed, organically grown estate vineyards on the western bench of Napa Valley. The wine prioritizes balance and clarity over excess ripeness, capturing the region’s hallmark dark fruit character alongside savory, earthy nuance and the fine-grained tannins often described as Rutherford dust. Vineyard practices play a central role in defining the wine’s profile, with balanced vines naturally delivering depth of flavor while preserving acidity. Frog’s Leap Cabernet Sauvignon stands apart for its restraint and food-friendly structure, with appeal to those seeking a more classical interpretation of Napa Cabernet — one that aligns with traditional winemaking values while remaining true to its Rutherford origin. The wine is built to evolve gracefully, rewarding both early enjoyment and extended cellaring.
VINEYARD
Frog's Leap’s estate Cabernet Sauvignon vineyards are located primarily on the western Rutherford bench, an area prized for its well-drained soils and balanced growing conditions. Certified organic and dry-farmed, these vineyards rely on deep root systems rather than irrigation, naturally limiting vigor and concentrating flavor. Gravelly alluvial soils contribute to structure and drainage, while warm days and cool evenings allow for full phenolic development without sacrificing acidity.
WINEMAKING
Fermentations are conducted to highlight purity of fruit and site expression, with careful extraction to maintain fine tannin structure. The wine is then aged in French oak, primarily neutral, for approximately eighteen months, allowing the components to integrate without overt wood influence.
VINTAGE
The 2022 season in Rutherford began with drought conditions and an early start, followed by a warm, steady summer. A September heat event accelerated harvest decisions, requiring careful selection in the vineyard. Despite lower yields, fruit quality was strong. Wines show concentration and depth, supported by firm structure and classic Rutherford savory nuance.
TASTING NOTE
Medium- to full-bodied, black cherry, cassis, dried herbs, graphite, subtle cedar, fine-grained tannins, fresh acidity.
FOOD PAIRING
Grilled lamb, roast beef, herb-crusted pork, mushroom risotto, aged cheddar, hard alpine cheeses
Color
Red
Blend %
91% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Cabernet Franc
Appellation
Rutherford
Alcohol
13.8%
Suggested Retail Price
$75
Reviews
VinePair - May 6, 2026 "This wine might be one of the purest expressions of Rutherford Cabernet Sauvignon. It’s not polished around the edges; it has a rustic elegance and power. The nose opens with crushed wild berries, anise, and soil-covered mushrooms. The mouthfeel is elegant and rich, with a seamless balance among fruit, tannins, and acidity. It’s a harmonious wine that, once on the palate, you don’t want to end; fortunately, you have a whole bottle to enjoy."
Vinous - November 1, 2025 "The 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon is terrific. Rich and forward, the 2022 is a bit extroverted for Frog's Leap, but all the elements are so well balanced. The Cabernet is typically in a blend from three ranches—Rossi, Chavez-Leeds and Red Barn—but in 2022, most of the wine is from Rossi and Chavez-Leeds, as Red Barn was mostly declassified because the fruit was compromised by the year. Ripe red cherry fruit, blood orange and spice notes convey an impression of exoticism that is super distinctive."
Trade Materials
Other Wines by this Producer
Shale & Stone Chardonnay
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‘Shale and Stone’ on the label is reflective of the deep minerality of the vineyard’s ancient fractured shale soils and the freshness of the varietal. With long sur lie aging in concrete, it is taut but generous, and full yet bright on the palate.
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Stone fruit and white flower aromatics are perfectly complemented with crisp, minerally flavors. Fermented and aged in stainless steel tanks to preserve the purity and distinctiveness of this noble grape.
Merlot
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Grown in cool clay and crafted with care- this Merlot is a refined, age-worthy wine of both subtlety and strength. Showing deep plum and cocoa notes with soft tannins and a savory finish, aged in a mix of small French oak barrels to enhance texture without overpowering the wine’s natural elegance.
Zinfandel
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Made in the classic field blend style including significant portions of Petite Sirah and Carignane. Vibrant raspberry and black cherry fruit with hints of spice and earth, balanced by bright acidity and moderate tannins—crafted from dry-farmed, organically grown vines and aged in neutral oak to preserve its varietal purity and freshness.
Flycatcher
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Flycatcher is a vibrant, juicy field blend bursting with red berry fruit, spice, and floral notes, crafted from organically grown Zinfandel, Petite Sirah, Carignan, and Valdiguié, co-fermented and aged in neutral oak for a fresh, energetic expression of California terroir.
