
Cabernet Sauvignon Napa
Quintessa 2017
Winemaker Rebekah Wineburg values the Carmenere (which is one of the national grapes of Chile – Quintessa was founded by the Chilean-born Agustin Huneeus) because it “it contributes well-developed herbal character with moderate tannins. It performs really well for us.” The early palate is dry and intense with extraordinary garrigue (sage and herb) characters, some tapenade, then some sweet black fruit, very savoury with bright acidity, warm without any alcohol heat, the whole effect of freshness & a dry warmth & fine tannins (the season was “defined by heatwaves”, Wineburg says, and October was ravaged by wildfires but there’s no hint of smoke taint here) with a fine wash of juice at the end. Needs at least five years before even thinking of opening – a lovely wine
Score
Wine Details
Wine Style
Still
Grape Varieties
Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Carmenere , Petit Verdot
Alcohol
14.5%
Bottle size
750ml
Drink dates
2025 - 2035
Origin
Country
USA
Region
California
Sub-region
Napa Valley AVA
Area
Rutherford AVA
Tasting Information
Blind
No
Tasted by
Adam Lechmere