2021 Napa Valley Red Blend

Fabulous intensity and power without ever straying over the line, clear liquorice and cocoa bean, restrained and vivid blackberry, cassis and red cherry fruits overlaid with spiced cardamom and cumin. Grilled campfire smoke as it opens, this is a delicious vintage of Quintessa. Rebekah Wineburg winemaker.

91% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Cabernet Franc, 3% Carmenère, 1% Merlot, 1% Petit Verdot. Average 22 days’ skin contact. Aged 22 months, 65% in new French oak barrels, 32% in neutral oak, 3% in terracotta amphorae. Certified organic (CCOF) and biodynamic (Demeter). Deep ruby, nearing purple in colour. Youthful, with dense blackberry and violet aromas and a subtle orange-rind and spice character. Ripeness and viscosity to the palate, with high, sticky tannins that coat the mouth and very fresh acidity. Incredibly concentrated – this should go for ages. Lengthy finish. Absolutely one to stash for a special occasion or keep for a 2021-vintage baby. (SCJ)

Lastly, the 2021 Proprietary Red was just bottled in July of this year and checks in as 91% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Cabernet Franc, 3% Carmenere, and the rest Petit Verdot and Merlot, brought up in 64% new French oak. It offers pure blue fruits, spring flowers, violets, and spicy oak, with a beautiful chalky, mineral note that comes through more on the palate. It's elegant, full-bodied, has ultra-fine tannins, good acidity, and terrific length. It's another gorgeous wine that will evolve for 15+ years.