Quintessa Illumination Sauvignon Blanc (Napa-Sonoma)

Quintessa is a prestigious winery located in the Rutherford appellation of Napa Valley, California, known for producing some of the region’s finest Bordeaux-style red wines. Founded in 1989 by Agustin and Valeria Huneeus, Quintessa is a reflection of their vision to create a world-class estate that integrates sustainable farming practices with the art of fine winemaking. The estate spans over 280 acres, featuring diverse terrain that includes rolling hills, woodlands, and a variety of soil types, which contribute to the complexity and elegance of the wines. Quintessa is a single vineyard estate, meaning that all the grapes used in their wines are grown on their own land, emphasizing a deep connection to the terroir.

The flagship wine of Quintessa is a red blend typically composed of classic Bordeaux varietals such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and Carménère. This wine is celebrated for its depth, balance, and ability to age gracefully, offering rich flavors of dark fruit, layered with notes of earth, spice, and oak, with a silky texture and a long, refined finish. Quintessa's winemaking philosophy emphasizes minimal intervention to allow the natural characteristics of the vineyard to shine through, with a focus on gentle handling of the grapes, fermentation in a mix of stainless steel, oak, and concrete tanks, and aging in French oak barrels.

In addition to its commitment to quality, Quintessa is dedicated to sustainability and environmental stewardship. The estate practices organic and biodynamic farming, which not only enhances the quality of the grapes but also promotes the health and vitality of the land. Quintessa’s dedication to producing exceptional wine while respecting and preserving the natural environment makes it a standout among Napa Valley wineries, earning it acclaim from wine critics and enthusiasts around the world.