winery

Quintessa

United States

Philosophy

Twenty-six distinct vineyard blocks, each harvested and vinified separately, then aged individually in French oak for up to two years before final blending. The approach prioritizes block-by-block expression of the estate's natural mosaic of soils and exposures, with gravity-flow winemaking respecting the terroir at every stage.

Reputation

In 1989, Chilean vintner Agustin Huneeus and his wife Valeria, a viticulturist and microbiologist, discovered 280 acres of pristine, unplanted land in the heart of Rutherford and envisioned it as a singular estate wine. They planted Bordeaux varieties on a natural mosaic of volcanic and alluvial soils across 26 blocks, committing from inception to organic and biodynamic stewardship.

AllocationFounded year varies slightly in sources: most cite 1989 (land purchase), first commercial release 1994. Production volume of 8,500 cases annually cited in 2015 source (17,000 bottles); recommend verification of current production. Vineyard holdings: sources cite 160 acres planted of 280 total; converted to hectares as ~64.75. Demeter biodynamic certification achieved 2020, CCOF organic 2019. No specific importers identified for UK or Japan in search results; wines distributed through Huneeus Vintners portfolio and various retail channels (Wine.com, Millesima USA, etc.). Winemaker succession: Thomas Brown (winemaker through 2013), transitioned to Rebekah Wineburg as head winemaker with Brown as Winemaker Emeritus. Current winemaker confirmed as Rebekah Wineburg as of 2021-2026. Family ownership structure: Agustin and Valeria Huneeus founders; son Agustin Francisco Huneeus now involved in generational leadership approach. Only flagship Quintessa blend confirmed as primary production; Faust and Illumination are secondary/supplementary labels.

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