Rudy Zuidema is a name synonymous with innovation, dedication, and exceptional craftsmanship in the world of winemaking. With a career spanning over three decades, Rudy's journey has seen him collaborate with some of the most prestigious wineries in Napa Valley, leading to the creation of his own brand and numerous consulting ventures. His influence in the industry is profound, marked by a relentless pursuit of quality and a passion for the art of winemaking.

Early Career and Influences

Rudy's journey began with his work at renowned wineries such as Honig, Robert Craig, and Ehlers Estate.

At Honig Vineyard & Winery, Rudy honed his skills in sustainable viticulture, embracing practices that would later become hallmarks of his approach to winemaking.

His tenure at Robert Craig Winery allowed him to delve into the complexities of crafting high-elevation wines, while Ehlers Estate provided him with the opportunity to blend traditional methods with innovative techniques.

Branching Out: Independent Consultant

As Rudy's reputation grew, so did the opportunities for independent consulting. Embracing these new challenges, Rudy began working on smaller, more intimate projects, helping wineries achieve their full potential. This phase of his career allowed him to apply his extensive knowledge and hands-on approach to a variety of vineyards, each with their unique

Zuidema Wines: A Family of Operations

In 1999, Rudy founded Zuidema Wines, marking the beginning of a new chapter. Over the years, Zuidema Wines has expanded to include a few notable operations:

Shadybrook Estate: Known for its luxurious and complex wines, Shadybrook Estate benefits from Rudy's meticulous attention to detail and commitment to quality.
Red Cap Vineyards: Specializing in mountain-grown Cabernet Sauvignon, Red Cap Vineyards highlights Rudy's expertise in high-elevation winemaking, producing wines with exceptional depth and character.
Napa de Oro: A venture that exemplifies Rudy's innovative spirit, Napa de Oro focuses on crafting wines that highlight the unique terroir of Napa Valley, blending tradition with modern techniques.
Phamus: A boutique winery that benefits from Rudy's strategic vision and winemaking prowess, Phamus offers a range of wines that are both distinctive and expressive.
Southern Roots: Celebrating the rich history and heritage of Southern winemaking, Southern Roots is a testament to Rudy's versatility and ability to adapt to different winemaking regions and styles.

The Birth of Zuidema Grenache

One of Rudy's most personal projects is Zuidema Grenache. This brand was born from a collaboration with a vineyard owner in Rutherford, who was contemplating replanting a Cabernet Sauvignon block. Rudy, along with other grape buyers, proposed a bold shift to Grenache, securing the fruit with pre-plant contracts. The result was the 2014 inaugural vintage of Zuidema Grenache, a wine that epitomizes Rudy's innovative approach and commitment to excellence.

Crafting Iconic Wines

Rudy's influence extends beyond his own ventures. His work with Honig Vineyard & Winery has produced wines celebrated for their balance and sustainability. At Robert Craig Winery, Rudy's expertise in high-elevation viticulture has resulted in wines of remarkable complexity and structure. Ehlers Estate continues to benefit from Rudy's blend of tradition and innovation, creating wines that are both timeless and forward-thinking.

A Legacy of Excellence

Rudy Zuidema's career is a testament to his unwavering dedication to the craft of winemaking. Whether through his own brands or his work with other esteemed wineries, Rudy has consistently pushed the boundaries of what is possible, creating wines that critics and wine lovers alike celebrate. His legacy is one of passion, innovation, and an unrelenting pursuit of quality.

ABOUT RUDY

Rudy was born in Sacramento CA and grew up in the small agricultural community of Davis. He attended the University of California at Davis, studying Plant Science and Agriculture Management focusing on Viticulture. He graduated in 1991 and quickly headed for the Napa Valley wine country to find vineyard management and winemaking opportunities. He first worked in restaurants where he could gain knowledge of food and wine pairing, and where he happily could taste thousands of wines from Napa Valley and other regions around the world. Rudy works with many exceptional vineyards throughout the Napa Valley region, including AVAs of Howell Mountain, Coombsville, Rutherford, Mount George, Carneros, and St. Helena. He uses a natural, respectful, and non-manipulative approach to winemaking that creates wines that tell their individual and unique stories. He believes every wine should speak of the grape that it is: the region, the vineyard, and the vintage year of its origin.

ABOUT AMY

Amy was born in Mountain View CA when her dad was studying at Stanford and her mom began a nursing career. After bouncing around university towns across the country while her dad tried his hand at professor, Amy gained five siblings and the family eventually settled in Danville, CA. Amy studied Human Development and Psychology at California Polytechnic State University in San Luis Obispo. She graduated in 1994 and worked as a market analyst for a large department store chain. Then by chance, she met Rudy, and it changed both of their lives at once, forever, and for the best. After an exciting courtship rallying between San Francisco and Napa Valley adventures, Amy and Rudy married in St. Helena in 1998. Amy continued in marketing for Araujo Estate and Robert Craig Winery, while learning the intricacies of the wine industry. Now Amy and Rudy have a wonderful family with four amazing, beautiful children who are the joy and inspiration of the thriving Zuidema Wine Company.

Zuidema 2017 Grenache: Rudy Zuidema's Masterpiece

The 2017 Zuidema Grenache is a shining example of Rudy Zuidema's mastery in winemaking, displaying his ability to craft a wine that perfectly captures the essence of its terroir and the distinctive characteristics of the Grenache varietal. This vintage continues the legacy of innovation and excellence that Rudy has established with his Zuidema Grenache line.

Vintage Overview

The 2017 growing season in Napa Valley was marked by challenges and opportunities that ultimately contributed to the complexity and depth of the wines produced. A wet winter replenished water reserves, followed by a warm and dry summer allowing optimal grapes ripening. The season concluded with an early harvest, ensuring the grapes were picked at their peak maturity.

Winemaking Philosophy - Aging Process

Rudy Zuidema's approach to crafting the 2017 Grenache remains rooted in his principles of minimal intervention and deep respect for the vineyard. The grapes for this vintage were meticulously hand-harvested and carefully sorted to select only the finest fruit. Fermentation was carried out using native yeasts to preserve the purity and unique expression of the Grenache grapes.

The 2017 Zuidema Grenache was aged in a combination of neutral and lightly toasted French oak barrels. This choice of aging vessels was deliberate, aimed at enhancing the wine’s complexity while maintaining the delicate balance of fruit and spice that defines Grenache. The oak influence is subtle, providing structure and depth without overpowering the wine’s natural flavors.

Tasting Notes

Appearance: The 2017 Zuidema Grenache presents a vibrant ruby-red color with slight garnet hues at the rim, indicative of its maturity and depth.
Aroma: On the nose, this wine offers an enticing bouquet of ripe red fruits such as raspberry, cherry, and strawberry, intertwined with floral notes of violet and rose petals. There are also subtle hints of baking spices, white pepper, and a touch of earthiness, adding to its aromatic complexity.
Palate: The palate is medium-bodied with a silky texture, delivering a harmonious blend of red fruit flavors. Juicy cherries and plums dominate, complemented by herbal undertones of rosemary and thyme. The spice elements detected in the aroma are mirrored on the palate, providing depth and intrigue.
Finish: The finish is long and elegant, characterized by fine-grained tannins and a balanced acidity that leaves a refreshing, lingering impression. The wine's structure and vibrant acidity ensure it will continue to develop and evolve with additional aging.

Food Pairing

The 2017 Zuidema Grenache’s versatility makes it an excellent companion to a variety of dishes. Its bright acidity and fruit-forward profile pair wonderfully with grilled meats, roasted poultry, and Mediterranean cuisine. It also complements dishes featuring earthy vegetables, such as mushroom risotto or roasted root vegetables, and pairs beautifully with soft, creamy cheeses.

Significance and Legacy

The 2017 Zuidema Grenache is not just a testament to Rudy Zuidema’s winemaking prowess but also a celebration of his innovative spirit. By championing Grenache in a region often dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon, Rudy has highlighted the potential for diversity in Napa Valley’s viticulture. This vintage, like those before it, exemplifies his commitment to excellence, creativity, and the authentic expression of the vineyard.

In Conclusion

The Zuidema 2017 Grenache stands as a remarkable achievement in Rudy Zuidema’s illustrious career. It captures the essence of the 2017 vintage, the unique terroir of Rutherford, and the exceptional craftsmanship that Rudy brings to every bottle. For wine enthusiasts and collectors alike, the 2017 Zuidema Grenache offers a captivating experience, rich with flavor and elegance, and a true reflection of Rudy’s dedication to the art of winemaking.