Illumination by Quintessa - California Ava 2024
Illumination by Quintessa, when Napa Valley meets Sonoma Valley
Illumination is a new white wine produced by Quintessa. The name Illumination comes from the vibrant color of the grapes at harvest, which the family described as illuminating the Quintessa estate.
The Huneeus family believes in the beauty and depth of Sauvignon Blanc and the art of blending. They chose to put a detail from the Book of Kells, an illuminated manuscript, onto the label as a reflection of the precision, art, and beauty behind the wine.
Illumination by Quintessa is a wine of true character and complexity. The grapes, from Napa Valley and Sonoma Valley, are handpicked and gently whole-cluster pressed, and the juice is fermented with mostly native yeast in a variety of vessels.
The 2024 Vintage
Steady rainfall in the winter provided a good source of water reserves deep in the soil. Budbreak started early compared to the previous vintage.
Throughout the spring and early summer, canopy growth was well-balanced. As the bunches of berries flourished, the vines also yielded a good crop balance. We started picking when grapes reached perfect maturity, and we’re very pleased with the bright flavors and balanced acidity that will be a hallmark of the vintage.
Tasting notes:
The 2024 Illumination shows a remarkable depth of flavor. Aromas of Meyer lemon zest, white peach, yuzu, honeysuckle, orange blossom, and crystallized ginger are all elevated by a lovely acidity. A savory minerality layers itself among the appealing fruit flavors and hints at the complexity that will continue to reveal itself as the wine ages.