A 9,500-case blend of 77% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot, and 3% Cabernet Franc, the 2002 Proprietary Red Wine boasts a deep ruby/purple color as well as lovely scents of flowers, plums, black currants, and notions of cherries, earthy/loamy soil, and tobacco leaf. Clearly the richest Quintessa to date, it is medium to full-bodied, with a seamless integration of wood, tannin, and acidity. Anticipated maturity: 2005-2014.Not yet released.Tel. (707) 963-7111; Fax (707) 963-7867

Sleek and focused, dark in color and rich in flavor, with full-bodied currant, mocha, blackberry and clove flavors that gain depth and complexity on the finish, leaving you hoping for a shade more length. On the aftertaste, the woody, leathery flavors stand out. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Best from 2007 through 2013. 9,700 cases made. -JL

The best Quintessa in years, this huge, rich wine is really too young now. All the parts are beautiful, from the ripe, sweet cherry-blackberry fruit through the fine, dusty tannins to the lush overlay of vanilla-scented oak. This will be a great wine by 2007 and should last for many years afterward. ——S.H.(12/15/2005)—— 94