Wine Spectator is arguably the most prominent wine publication in the United States, if not the world. They review wines very diligently and with great care, and are not known to give the wines inflated scores. In the entire history of Wine Spectator, only 5 California Sauvignon Blancs have ever achieved 95 points or higher from them... this is the latest member in that elusive club!
Located in the heart of Rutherford, Quintessa is a 280-acre site that reflects a diversity of geology, biodiversity, and microclimates. Inspired by this distinct property, founders Agustin and Valeria Huneeus believed that it was destined to become one of the world's great wine estates. Flash-forward to today, and Quintessa is one of the most iconic estates in the Napa Valley. A total of 160 acres are planted to mostly Bordeaux varietals, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, as well as some Sauvignon Blanc. Each block is farmed organically, and in some cases Biodynamically, then harvested and vinified individually to preserve and enhance the nuances of the land. Inspired by the land's natural grandeur, the Huneeus family dedicated themselves to capturing the beauty and harmony of this land in the form of a great wine.
A Worthy Partner to Quintessa. Illumination emerged from a clear vision. Simply put, to create a white wine that would be a worthy partner to Quintessa-possessing the complexity, character, and transparency to mirror their estate blend. From their first small production in 2002, the core of the fruit for Illumination has always come from the Quintessa estate. Today, the estate Sauvignon Blanc is complimented with fruit from other like-minded growers who hold the same dedication to strict farming as the Huneeus family.
Blended with just a touch of Sémillon, the grapes are hand harvested and gently whole-cluster pressed before the juice is fermented with native yeast in a variety of vessels. French oak barrels bring depth and a hint of oak spice while acacia barrels add a complex floral spice on the nose. Egg-shaped concrete fermenters add richness to the palate while retaining fresh aromas, and stainless-steel barrels maintain the purity of the fruit. Semillon adds a round mouthfeel to complement the vibrant Sauvignon Blanc.
Wine Spectator rated this an incredible 95-points, and called it "extraordinary" and "expressive". Sauvignon Blancs of this caliber do not come around often, from any part of the world, so be sure to grab this while it's available!
WINE SPECTATOR 95 POINTS - "An extraordinary white, with details of beeswax, honeysuckle and lanolin giving way to succulent white peach, nectarine and lemon curd flavors on a plush, juicy frame. Shows details of marmalade and candied ginger, with hints of litsea oil and lemon balm that linger on the long, expressive finish. Drink now through 2035."
Located in the heart of Rutherford, Quintessa is a 280-acre site that reflects a diversity of geology, biodiversity, and microclimates. Inspired by this distinct property, founders Agustin and Valeria Huneeus believed that it was destined to become one of the world's great wine estates. Flash-forward to today, and Quintessa is one of the most iconic estates in the Napa Valley. A total of 160 acres are planted to mostly Bordeaux varietals, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, as well as some Sauvignon Blanc. Each block is farmed organically, and in some cases Biodynamically, then harvested and vinified individually to preserve and enhance the nuances of the land. Inspired by the land's natural grandeur, the Huneeus family dedicated themselves to capturing the beauty and harmony of this land in the form of a great wine.
A Worthy Partner to Quintessa. Illumination emerged from a clear vision. Simply put, to create a white wine that would be a worthy partner to Quintessa-possessing the complexity, character, and transparency to mirror their estate blend. From their first small production in 2002, the core of the fruit for Illumination has always come from the Quintessa estate. Today, the estate Sauvignon Blanc is complimented with fruit from other like-minded growers who hold the same dedication to strict farming as the Huneeus family.
Blended with just a touch of Sémillon, the grapes are hand harvested and gently whole-cluster pressed before the juice is fermented with native yeast in a variety of vessels. French oak barrels bring depth and a hint of oak spice while acacia barrels add a complex floral spice on the nose. Egg-shaped concrete fermenters add richness to the palate while retaining fresh aromas, and stainless-steel barrels maintain the purity of the fruit. Semillon adds a round mouthfeel to complement the vibrant Sauvignon Blanc.
Wine Spectator rated this an incredible 95-points, and called it "extraordinary" and "expressive". Sauvignon Blancs of this caliber do not come around often, from any part of the world, so be sure to grab this while it's available!
WINE SPECTATOR 95 POINTS - "An extraordinary white, with details of beeswax, honeysuckle and lanolin giving way to succulent white peach, nectarine and lemon curd flavors on a plush, juicy frame. Shows details of marmalade and candied ginger, with hints of litsea oil and lemon balm that linger on the long, expressive finish. Drink now through 2035."
