90POINTS
16½/20
Church & State Wines Quintessential 2011
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaIt's been a while since I've tasted Quintessential in fact the last time was the 2005 vintage when it was put together by Napa Valley legend Bill Dyer. Clearly he made a lasting impression with his blend. The 2011 is very hedonistic in style and well, more California than Okanagan at this point. There is a ripeness you don't often see in BC Bordeaux blends; this red has all five grapes: cabernet sauvignon, cabernet franc, merlot, malbec and petit verdot. All grown on the Black Sage Bench. The nose is more South Okanagan, fragrant, savoury, dried herbs mixed with ripe cassis. The attack is skinny and warm with more dark fruits, tobacco, cedar and a hint of dried tomatoes. This needs another three years to put some fat on to balance off the fruit and spice. Not expected to be release until 2015 but you can grab some now off the website.Tasted: 08 June 2014Tasted by: Prices:BC | $55.00 | 750ml | VQA wine stores, winery direct, private wine shop |
Blend: Merlot - Cabernet Sauvignon - Cabernet Franc - Petit Verdot - MalbecCSPC: 757500UPC: 840098121405