In 1989, Chilean winemakers Augustin and Valeria Huneeus happened upon a 280-acre parcel of land in the heart of Rutherford that had never been planted with vines. The couple jumped and bought it. The result is Quintessa, one of the most spectacular estates in the Napa Valley. Today there are three different ways to experience Quintessa—all visits are privately hosted and tailored specifically for each guest. The Estate Tasting includes a walk to a scenic viewpoint, followed by a seated sampling session in the main winery building. The “Quintessential Quintessa” includes a scenic drive to a private tasting pavilion atop Dragon’s Hill, which offers unrivaled vistas of the entire valley and revolves around narratives about the property, the terroir, and how winemaker Rebekah Wineburg plies her craft. Finally, the third—and most exclusive—option, dubbed the “Collectors Experience,” offers at least three wines from the Huneeus family cellar, poured alongside the most current release. Time the visit right and Augustin Huneeus himself might come out in his signature cowboy hat to say hello and regale your group with stories of his life in South America before he emigrated to the United States.
Quintessa
Rachel Weill, AFAR Media
Quintessa
Rachel Weill, AFAR Media
Quintessa
Rachel Weill, AFAR Media
Quintessa
Rachel Weill, AFAR Media
Quintessa
Rachel Weill, AFAR Media
Quintessa
Rachel Weill, AFAR Media
Quintessa
Rachel Weill, AFAR Media
Quintessa
Rachel Weill, AFAR Media
Quintessa
Rachel Weill, AFAR Media
Quintessa
Rachel Weill, AFAR Media
Quintessa
Rachel Weill, AFAR Media
Quintessa
Rachel Weill, AFAR Media
