Quintessa is a landmark Rutherford estate founded by Agustin and Valeria Huneeus, set on a 280‑acre property of diverse soils, exposures, and microclimates in the heart of Napa Valley. Farmed organically and Biodynamically, the estate cultivates 160 acres of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and Carménère across 26 individually vinified blocks to capture the site’s nuance. Known for its elegant, age‑worthy Bordeaux‑style blend, Quintessa reflects a philosophy of expressing the natural harmony and grandeur of its singular landscape.
The 2020 Quintessa enters on a core of cassis, black cherry, and currants enveloped by clove spice and savory dried
herbs. Layers of structured tannin and the distinct mineral imprint of the Quintessa terroir give way to a structured
and polished finish. Balanced and with well-integrated movement, this elegant and complex wine has plenty of life
ahead of it – drinking well now and with cellar potential for at least 20 years.
Blend: 87% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Cabernet Franc, 4% Carmenere, 2% Petit Verdot
98 Decanter Gorgeous aromas, fragrant and floral, sweet and heady sun-kissed currants and black cherry fruit. Full and intense but straight and linear, quite lean and not fleshy, with some cool, crystalline blue fruit aspects as well as liquorice and tobacco notes. It's compact for sure, but so well worked, tannins are fine and firm, really supportive and give both a wide and deep frame. Spiced and chalky but this is slick, stylish and sophisticated. The coiled nature of the tannins keeps it from expanding too much right now, clearly youthful with bite and a smoky tang on the finish. A delicious, biodynamic wine worth getting your hands on. Estate director Rodrigo Soto, winemaker Rebekah Wineburg. Ageing 22 months, 60% new French oak. A blend of 87% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Cabernet Franc, 4% Carménère and 2% Petit Verdot completes the blend. Drinking Window: 2026 - 2045
94 James Suckling A lovely red with a pretty core of currants, berries, spices and mushrooms. Medium to full body, layers of polished tannins and a juicy finish. A very balanced and fine wine. A little chewy. Drink or hold.
96 Wine Enthusiast Deceptively soft on first sip, this wine holds a deep well of dark fruits, seductive spices and firm tannins that build and broaden with more tastes. Yummy milk chocolate, cinnamon and blackberry flavors are wrapped in supportive tannins. Best from 2025–2035.
92 Jeb Dunnuck The 2020 Proprietary Red is another rock-solid 2020 that has the vintage's dense, compact feel while staying balanced. Red and black currants, mulberries, iron, leather, and violet notes define the nose, and it's medium to full-bodied, has a layered, elegant mouthfeel, and outstanding length. The blend is 87% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Cabernet Franc, 4% Carmenere, and the rest Petit Verdot that spent 22 months in 60% new oak.
