Quintessa: View of winery from the Silverado Trail.
The Quintessa estate has 170 planted acres dedicated to Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and Carmenère.
The estate uses organic viticultural and biodynamic practices.
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One Chilean Elegance
Quintessa
March 11, 2009
As travelers of the Silverado Trail pass through Rutherford, their eyes are drawn to a massive stone crescent tapering gracefully down from center to edge. What lies behind that wall, guarded by those gates? The answer is one couple's vision of one great wine from one quintessential property.
The story of five hills, five micro-climates and destiny is wonderfully described in print, images and film on Quintessa's website. All who visit should read and listen to it before securing an appointment. There you can trace the international viticultural accomplishments of Chilean born Agustin and Valeria Huneeus, the proprietor and visionary of Quintessa.
Our interest was piqued by architectural accolades detailing how modern winery design harmonized the flows of grapes, visitors and workers through this site. Stark concrete walls and angular panels of steel and glass bring light and drama to the space. They contrast perfectly with elaborately carved Mediterranean antiques.
Our tasting experience mirrored the elegance and refinement that winemaker Charles Thomas seeks in the solitary red meritage wine crafted here. We were treated to a glass of the 2005 Quintessa as well as a Vineyard Block Barrel Sample consisting of two cabernet sauvignons. One was from the Bench block and the other from the Riviera Sur block. From these two samples our group concocted several blends in search of our own perfection.
Quintessa
1601 Silverado Trail
Rutherford, CA 94573
Phone: 707 967-1601
www.Quintessa.com
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