The Quintessa Estate Red Wine

A Pure Expression of the Estate

A WINE ESTATE IS A COMMITMENT TO LONGEVITY, the physical embodiment of a promise made to the land. More than thirty years ago, Agustin and Valeria Huneeus vowed to honor the integrity of this extraordinary property they named Quintessa, a mosaic of hills and valleys in eastern Rutherford bounded by the Vaca Mountains and the Napa River. To preserve its arcadian beauty and farm it gently. And, above all, to guide its natural diversity into a singular wine.

Today, this landscape rises and falls with small vineyard blocks set amidst abundant vegetation and 100 acres of woodlands, including stands of majestic blue and valley oaks. Dragon’s Lake is home to populations of fish and waterfowl, while corridors of insectaries and native plants attract pollinators and the occasional fox. Over time, we’ve gained a more intimate understanding of our subterranean world as well. Its ancient geologies and range of soils, from the white volcanic ash of the eastern hills to the silty loam of the bench, converge to reveal themselves in a wine of elegance and harmony—a true reflection of the estate.

Mother Nature’s generosity came in the form of the incredible 2023 vintage. Vines thrived in the long growing season and mild temperatures. Abundant winter rains replenished our water stores. Grapes were concentrated and complex, resulting in wines with beautiful acidity, freshness, and elegance.  

The release of the 2023 vintage encapsulates forward momentum in several ways. Antonia, granddaughter of Valeria and Agustin, joined as estate manager this year. As the third generation, she continues the legacy of Quintessa, not just as a family business, but as a piece of the estate’s greater history in Napa Valley and the world. 

2023 Quintessa

After three years of drought, the winter of 2023 gifted us with copious rain. It replenished the lake and saturated the deep vineyard soils. These reserves provided the foundation for a strong growing season. 
 
Cool and wet conditions in early spring delayed bud break by two to three weeks. This unhurried cadence set the tone for the entire vintage. Summer, free from heat spikes, allowed grapes to ripen slowly. We watched as vines luxuriated in this moderate tempo. The estate felt calm and thoughtful, but underneath, excitement built for what we knew would be a standout vintage. 
 
As a testament to biodynamic farming, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc, replanted in the Riveria Block between just five and six years ago, make their debut this vintage. We also slightly increased our use of terracotta amphora during elevage. The shape and material enhance freshness and the singular fruit expressions of each variety. 
 
The 2023 Quintessa is a wine of remarkable balance and clarity. Lifted aromatics, bright acidity, and fine, precise tannins are all markers of the long growing season. The wine is harmonious and poised, and an elegant tribute to nature’s equilibrium. 

The 2023 opens with aromas of fresh cassis and violets, layered with notes of tobacco leaf and subtle herbs. The palate reveals a purity of fruit which is enhanced by depth and structure. Dense yet lithe, it carries the classic Quintessa texture and a long, graceful finish. Vibrant and complex, 2023 Quintessa captures all the nuances of its exceptional growing season.

CLICK HERE TO ACQUIRE THE 2023 QUINTESSA >>
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TO RECEIVE PRE-RELEASE ACCESS TO THE 2024 QUINTESSA, WE INVITE YOU TO JOIN OUR VINEYARD CIRCLE. FOR QUESTIONS OR TO INQUIRE, PLEASE EMAIL CUSTOMERSERVICE@QUINTESSA.COM OR CALL 707-286-2745.

Library Vintages

PLEASE CONTACT US TO INQUIRE ABOUT LIBRARY VINTAGES

(707) 286 2745 | customerservice@quintessa.com