Quintessa is in the heart of Nappa Valley, in Rutherford. It's a very pretty part of the world, not one I get to frequent often but I always enjoy it when I do. On this occasion it was purely luck that brought me to their vineyard for tasting and a visit. It was back in 2007 and I was with a colleague driving around Nappa. We saw the sign and just drove up. Typically they don't allow walk ins - you have to book in advance for a tasting experience. Very different to most Australian vineyards. We got lucky and were able to have a modified experience with just a tasting. Still nothing there is 'just a tasting'. It's a full on seated experience with decanted wines & cheeses. They really go all out to make it enjoyable. Quintessa is unusual. They have 5 varietals that grow on the estate - Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and Carmenere. The wine is a blend that can include all or some of ...