Quintessential was launched with the 2005 vintage when Church & State’s consulting winemaker was Bill Dyer, the legendary California winemaker.
The previous releases of Quintessential contained all five Bordeaux classic grape varieties but for the 2017 release, only Merlot and Cabernet Franc are present in a 50/50 ratio. The wine also comes with a newly designed label. The Merlot is from the North Osoyoos West Bench and the Cabernet Franc from Oliver Black Sage Bench (Eastside).
I was fortunate to receive a sample of the wine before the new label was finished.
Harvested on October 18th, 2017 the wine was fermented in stainless steel tanks and aged in French Oak for 14 Months before Bottling.
Alcohol 14.1 % |TA 7.8 gm/L | RS 2.77 gm/L
A gorgeous dark purple-ruby colour. The style is more California than Okanagan! After decanting, the vibrant aromas of black cherry, blueberry, cassis, cedar, and a hint of spice and creamy vanilla dance from the glass to dazzle your senses.
The depth of flavours is dominated by black cherry and blackberry. The dark, dense, black fruit seduces the palate. The tannins are ripe and velvet smooth with extraordinary length. The wine is excellent now but will truly shine in 2-3 years. 93 points
The wine paired perfectly with NY strip steak, oven-baked buttered potatoes and French-style green beans.
For the complete portfolio of Church & State wines please visit the winery website.
For more information on the current releases of Church & State Red Wines please see Church & State for Sophisticated Red Wines