Neal Family ‘Rutherford Dust’ Assyrtiko
Neal Family’s Assyrtiko pours a pale straw-to-light gold color. On the nose it’s expressive and aromatic, showing citrus (lemon zest, grapefruit, mandarin), white-flower blossom, green apple, yellow orchard fruit (peach or pear), and subtle minerality with a saline, coastal-like edge. On the palate, the wine delivers bright acidity, crisp texture, and clean fruit — think lemon-lime, green apple, white peach, and hints of tropical or stone fruit, balanced by a slightly saline/mineral finish. Some tasters note herbal or Mediterranean herb undertones (like thyme or herbs) that echo the variety’s classical Old-World roots.
Assyrtiko grape blend.
The Estate
Mark Neal is Napa Valley’s organic and Biodynamic® farming trailblazer and the founder and owner of Neal Family Vineyards. After purchase two other vineyards in Napa Valley starting at the age of 20, he stumbled on a unique property in the Howell Mountain AVA.
Wine Making
In winemaking, the Assyrtiko is vinified under cool, controlled conditions to preserve freshness and varietal expression. Neal Family uses their Rutherford Dust estate — benefiting from Napa’s microclimate — to grow this Greek grape in a terroir-adapted environment.
Food Suggestions
Pairs well with seafood dishes such as oysters, clams, shellfish, ceviche, shrimp cocktail, and light fare salads.
• Type: Wines
• Sub-type: Wines
• Class: White
• ABV%: 12.7
