2017 Napa Valley Red Blend
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Tasting notes
Quintessa's 2017 Proprietary Red Wine is a more muscular, pungent expression of this special bit of Rutherford dirt. Scents of camphor and earth accent cassis on the nose, while the mouthfeel is full-bodied and sturdy, with ample tannins and hints of mocha on the finish. A blend of 92% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Merlot, 3% Carmenère and 1% Petit Verdot aged in 76% new French oak, it's quite different in style from most other vintages.
Critic scores
Average Score
Tom Parker MW, jancisrobinson.com
Jancis Robinson MW
More reviews and scores
92% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Merlot, 3% Carménѐre, 1% Petit Verdot. ‘The 2017 growing season began with record rainfall through the winter, producing deep soil moisture. With a mild spring following, the growing season began on schedule – budbreak and bloom occurring within their typical timeframe and resulting in beautiful uniformity across the vineyard. As the year progressed, 2017 became a warm growing season, similar to 2013 and 2015. Still, ripening continued on an average pace, with veraison occurring at the end of July. A warm Labor Day weekend kicked the harvest into high gear: picking on the Quintessa estate began on 11 September and was completed on 7 October. A little light and austere at the moment overshadowed by the 2016. It may well develop into a charmer and certainly has no excesses but is just a bit timid currently. (JR)
Small yield, intense and concentrated, tons of black pepper and smoked earth, with cardamon, mandarin and bay leaf spice set against blackcurrant and loganberry fruits. Restrained in character at this early stage, with a firm tannic frame, but showcases deft winemaking and energy. You could almost start drinking it now, but the power is hidden, and it is likely to bed down for a few more years before fully opening up. 76% new oak. A vintage that really highlighted the importance of old vines and their ability to resist drought (this was the year with a five day zero humidity event, and then the fires in October). Winemaker Rebekah Wineberg, consultant Michel Rolland. Harvest September 18 to October 11.
92% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Merlot, 3% Carmenere and 1% Petit Verdot. Record rainfall was a blessing after several drought years. A mild spring was followed by a growing season warmer than 2013 and 2015. Deep ruby colour. Cassis and also a little floral red fruit on the nose – there is definite freshness here. Fine acidity and some earthiness on the palate too, but gradually the ripe and slightly dried fruit comes through. The finish is polished and fleshy, with a hint of warming alcohol. (TP)