
67Wine
Illumination by Quintessa Winery Sauvignon Blanc 2023 750ml
An extraordinary white, with details of beeswax, honeysuckle and lanolin giving way to succulent white peach, nectarine and lemon.

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Winemaker Description
The 2023 vintage of Illumination reveals aromatic purity and incredible depth. Classic notes of grapefruit peel, lemon curd, and white peach are layered with undertones of ginger tea, wild thyme, and clover blossom - the floral character a hallmark of the cool vintage. On the palate, flavors of kumq...Show More >
Winemaker Description
The 2023 vintage of Illumination reveals aromatic purity and incredible depth. Classic notes of grapefruit peel, lemon curd, and white peach are layered with undertones of ginger tea, wild thyme, and clover blossom - the floral character a hallmark of the cool vintage. On the palate, flavors of kumquat and guava mesh with wet slate and elderflower. A lovely textural roundness is balanced by racy acidity and minerality. While vibrant in its youth, this wine's structure also promised aging potential.
Expert Review - Vintage 2023
Wine Spectator 95 Points | An extraordinary white, with details of beeswax, honeysuckle and lanolin giving way to succulent white peach, nectarine and lemon curd flavors on a plush, juicy frame. Shows details of marmalade and candied ginger, with hints of litsea oil and lemon balm that linger on the long, expressive finish. Drink now through 2035. 5,000 cases made.
Further Winemaker Notes
What started as a passion project for the Huneeus family, this limited bottling is one of Napa Valley's most sought-after Sauvignon Blancs. When making Illumination our ultimate goal is to produce a white wine of true character. We approach Illumination with the same care and attention as with Quintessa, with the aim of capturing the best qualities of our grapes and to craft a wine of harmony and balance. Illumination is alive with aromatic complexity, beautiful texture and bright fruit flavors. This is an incredible vintage and the perfect summer wine that pairs with a variety of appetizers and seafood.
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Wine Information:
Country: United States
Region: California
Sub-Region:
Appellation: Napa Valley
Variety: Sauvignon Blanc
Type: Whites
Size: 750ml
Choose when time is of the essence
Expert Reviews - Prior Vintage 2022
94 Points James Suckling | Aromas of dried apple, pineapple and lemon with honey blossom follow through to a medium to full body with a lovely texture and a wonderful finish with phenolic framing and intensity. 83% sauvignon blanc and 17% semillon. Drink or hold.
90 Points Wine Enthusiast | Bright, refreshing and with some good fruit depth, this wine made from 50% Sauvignon Musqué can be sipped alone and will also pair nicely with lunch and appetizers. A touch of ripeness/sweetness softens the edges and amplifies the citrus and grassy flavors.