The vines that would supply the so-called Quintessa Blanc were planted on the estate in 2002 and, since its first release some eight years later, this wine has, much to everyone’s surprise (except for those who first made it), become as sought-after as the iconic Quintessa red!  Made from Sauvignon Blanc blended with just under 20% Semillon and aged in small French oak barrels, it’s a very rich, quite exotic white with a ton of personality!  Think the weight, texture and gravitas of the best Graves Blanc from Bordeaux with a dash of up-valley Napa Valley sunshine and panache and you have some idea of what to expect here.  Made to pair with the richest seafood, fish and poultry preparations, it can stand up to just about anything and will taste great all by itself in a large Bordeaux-style glass.  We’ve managed to grab a small parcel (only 36 bottles) at a very special Insiders Only price.  We can’t advertise it on-line but we can let you, our best Sauvignon Blanc-loving Insiders, know we have it.  Though we’ve not had mature bottles of this yet, I am guessing it would age as nicely as a Graves too. 

Wine Spectator: Wonderfully expressive, oozing with fragrant details and complex notes of honeysuckle, Meyer lemon, makrut lime, litsea oil and lemon verbena. Intense and harmonious, but the supple frame and fresh thread of acidity leave an elegant impression. Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon. Drink now 93 points
 
James Suckling: Aromas of dried apple, pineapple and lemon with honey blossom follow through to a medium to full body with a lovely texture and a wonderful finish with phenolic framing and intensity. 83% sauvignon blanc and 17% semillon. Drink or hold. 94 points