94POINTS
17½/20
Quintessa 2010
Rutherford, Napa Valley, California, United StatesI've always been intrigued by Quintessa, it's once overlooked site, the Huneeus interest in biodynamic farming, the blend cabernet sauvignon, merlot, cabernet franc, petit verdot and oddly carmenère. Yet in the scope of some recent big tastings of French and American reds this 2010 stands out as a beacon of elegance and civility. Despite a lashing of 85 percent new French oak somehow it disappears into the wine to create a seamless mix of fruit and oak. We lover the floral red fruit overtones, vibrant acidity and what I would term structural elegance. Nowhere near ready to drink but this will be a great bottle of California cabernet that is more Euro than American. One for the cellar and cheap by class-growth Bordeaux standards.Tasted: 14 December 2013Tasted by: Anthony GismondiPrices:ON | $140.00 | 750ml |
Franciscan Estates
Blend: Cabernet Sauvignon - Merlot - Cabernet Franc - Syrah - MalbecUPC: 0830085001025