Quintessa Rutherford Proprietary Red 2023 Rated 99JS

James Suckling Review
Rated 99
Luscious dark fruit that’s soft and supple. Aromas of blackberries, currants, violets, graphite, licorice, spices, dried flowers and chalk. The palate is densely packed, with dark fruit, fine minerally tannins and bright acidity, bringing a rustic, ferric feel and a bright, fresh and focused profile. What an exceptional release. Made from 90% cabernet sauvignon, 5% cabernet franc, 2% carmenere, 2% merlot and 1% petit verdot. Aged in 60% new French oak. Drink or hold.

Quintessa Rutherford Proprietary Red 2023

Quintessa Rutherford Proprietary Red 2023 is an iconic estate-grown Bordeaux-style blend that embodies the harmony, elegance, and terroir of the legendary Rutherford appellation in Napa Valley. Produced exclusively from the biodynamically farmed Quintessa estate, this world-class wine reflects a meticulous commitment to sustainable viticulture, precision winemaking, and the expression of a singular vineyard site.

Key Details

• Wine Type: Red Wine
• Vintage: 2023
• Region: Rutherford, Napa Valley, California
• Producer: Quintessa
• Varietal: 90% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Cabernet Franc, 2% Carmenere, 2% Merlot, 1% Petit Verdot
• ABV: 14.5%
• Style: Estate-Grown Napa Valley Red Blend
• Aging Potential: Exceptional long-term cellaring potential

Tasting Notes

Captivating aromas of blackberry, cassis, black cherry, and plum are layered with notes of violet, graphite, cedar, cocoa, and exotic spice. The palate is rich and seamless, revealing concentrated dark fruit flavors complemented by hints of espresso, dark chocolate, and mineral complexity. Refined tannins and vibrant acidity create remarkable balance and precision, leading to a long, elegant finish.

Profile & Craft

Crafted from a diverse mosaic of vineyard blocks across the Quintessa estate, this proprietary blend is designed to express the unique topography, soils, and microclimates of Rutherford. Careful hand-harvesting, meticulous sorting, and gentle winemaking practices preserve the purity of the fruit while enhancing complexity, texture, and age-worthiness.

Serving & Pairing

Serve between 60-65°F and decant for one to two hours before serving. This luxurious red blend pairs beautifully with dry-aged steaks, roasted lamb, beef tenderloin, braised short ribs, truffle dishes, wild mushrooms, and aged hard cheeses.

Quintessa Rutherford Proprietary Red 2023 delivers extraordinary depth, sophistication, and vineyard expression, standing among Napa Valley's most sought-after estate wines and offering an exceptional experience for collectors and fine wine enthusiasts.