Quintessa (375ML half-bottle) 1998 Front Label
Quintessa (375ML half-bottle) 1998 Front Label

Winemaker Notes

Although 1998 was challenging, overall we achieved excellent results. We had a long rainy winter but when the rains retreated, they gave way to a splendid spring crowned by a symphony of color that turned everything alive. During that very delicate period of bloom, the vines were blessed with mild weather conditions. Because of the winter rains, the vines tended toward vigorous growth, but we managed to control the vegetation so that light could permeate to each leaf. The fruit was well positioned and the clusters were open and healthy. The summer was warm with some occasional heat spells. Any fear of damage by the heat was overcome by a very mild and long fall. Tannins were able to mature slowly and sugars gracefully waited for them to get soft and supple. Harvest was very late, but the wait was worthwhile. The flavors of the fruit were fully developed and the quality was quite outstanding.
Quintessa

Quintessa

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Quintessa Winery Video

The great wines of the world consistently express the distinct qualities of the estates from which they come. In Napa, Quintessa is such a wine. To preserve the natural mosaic of the vineyard, each small plot is farmed, harvested and vinified individually so that the nuances of the land shine through. Afterward, the best components are brought together to create a wine of elegance and harmony. A timeless classic.

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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.

POE50412_1998 Item# 50412