2022 Quintessa, Cabernet Sauvignon, Rutherford, Napa Valley - 750ml

94–97 points (early critical range; vintage-specific reviews continue to emerge)

From the biodynamically farmed estate of Quintessa in the heart of Rutherford, this flagship wine is a meticulously composed Bordeaux-style blend that reflects the property’s diverse micro-terroirs. The 2022 vintage—marked by a warm, condensed growing season—yields a wine of richness and precision, balancing Napa Valley opulence with structural clarity and site-driven nuance.

Blend: Predominantly Cabernet Sauvignon, with Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and Carménère.
Tasting Notes: Aromas of black currant, dark cherry, and plum are layered with violet, graphite, cedar, and crushed herbs. The palate is expansive yet finely controlled, offering dense dark fruit, cocoa, and mineral undertones, supported by polished tannins and a long, resonant finish.
Structure: Full-bodied; concentrated, polished, and age-worthy.
Drink Window: 2026–2042

Decanting: Decant for 1.5–2 hours in its youth to allow the wine’s structure to soften and its aromatic complexity to fully unfold.

Quintessa remains one of Rutherford’s most complete and site-expressive wines, known for its seamless integration rather than sheer power. The 2022 continues this legacy, offering both immediate appeal and long-term cellaring potential—an essential Napa Valley benchmark for collectors and refined restaurant programs alike.