Winemaker Notes
Quintessa 1997 was blended in March of 1998 from twelve blocks chosen as the best expression of the vineyard in the 1997 vintage year. We strongly believe that creating the final blend as early as possible improves the development of complexity and balance in the finished wine. Each component of Caberney Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc was carefully selected with the goal of building harmony and elegance, rather than raw power. Quintessa 1997 has beautiful fruit concentration, rich flavors in the mouth and great length. Quintessa's signature softness and elegance will continue to develop over the next five to ten years in the bottle.
One of the most prestigious wines of the world capable of great power and grace, Napa Valley Cabernet is a leading force in the world of fine, famous, collectible red wine. Today the Napa Valley and Cabernet Sauvignon are so intrinsically linked that it is difficult to discuss one without the other. But it wasn’t until the 1970s that this marriage came to light; sudden international recognition rained upon Napa with the victory of the Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars 1973 Cabernet Sauvignon in the 1976 Judgement of Paris.
Cabernet Sauvignon undoubtedly dominates Napa Valley today, covering half of the land under vine, commanding the highest prices per ton and earning the most critical acclaim. Cabernet Sauvignon’s structure, acidity, capacity to thrive in multiple environs and ability to express nuances of vintage make it perfect for Napa Valley where incredible soil and geographical diversity are found and the climate is perfect for grape growing. Within the Napa Valley lie many smaller sub-AVAs that express specific characteristics based on situation, slope and soil—as a perfect example, Rutherford’s famous dust or Stags Leap District's tart cherry flavors.