Glory Days > California

Glory Days is produced and bottled by Van Ruiten Vineyards.

After his arrival in the United States shortly after World War II, John Van Ruiten settled in the Lodi area. His desire to have his own land was realized when in the early 1950’s and with his personal ‘sweat equity’, John bought his first vineyard property. He then planted Zinfandel vines and began growing winegrapes in the Lodi Appellation.

Five decades later, the Van Ruitens farm over 800 acres of winegrapes, with only their very best fruit destined to carry the family name. After more than fifty years, their ambition became a reality as the Van Ruiten Family Winery was built just prior to the 2000 harvest. Three generations of the Van Ruiten family now work together to tend the vineyards and manage their new winery. The Van Ruitens believe that hard work and an uncompromising commitment to top quality are the cornerstones of their business.

Chardonnay - Lodi

93% Chardonnay, 7% Viognier

Vineyard : Home Ranch & Acampo

Harvest Date : August 23rd, 2007

Alcohol : 12.5%

Residual Sugar : 0.36 g/100 mL Dry

Fermentation : 100% Stainless Steel

Bottling Date : April 28th, 2008

Production : 1,000 Cases

The aromas in the Glory Days Chardonnay are a combination of crisp green apple, orange blossom, and sweet Meyer lemon. It is a classic example of Lodi Chardonnay and shows all the unique characteristics of the region's terroir. The flavors on the palate show apple and pear layered with bright citrus and lemon peel. It is a delightful accompaniment to salads, seafood, fowl, lighter grilled meats and cream-based pastas.

Cabernet Sauvignon - Lodi

80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Petite Sirah, 5% Petit Verdot, 5% Merlot

Vineyard : Home Ranch

Harvest Date : October 30th, 2007

Residual Sugar : 0.25 g/100 mL Dry

Alcohol : 14.5%

Fermentation : 10 days on skins

Bottling Date : April 30th, 2008

Production : 1000 Cases

Aromas of black cherry with underlying notes of toasted warm coffee and blackcurrant. A touch of cedar folds seamlessly into a rich opulent black fruit core. Layers of oak build texture and offer a firm mid palate. The velvety long finish is filled with red fruit and currants.