it’s time to kick off our Wine Intrigue Awards!

If you’re new, here’s what WIA is.

Over the next two weeks, we’ll revisit the TOP hits of 2024. Our favorite winemaker. The top Italian. A treasured cult selection, and the ever-popular most wanted Napa Cab.

Plus many more.

The first WIA is for the best Cult wine of the year.

With so many great options, this was a tough one, but we’re sure this deserves a spot at the top. With a perfect 100 points how do you argue with that?

“Absolutely one to stash for a special occasion or keep for a 2021-vintage baby.” – Jancis Robinson

Yea, baby! I want to be that lucky baby!

Q. U. I. N. T. E. S. S. A.

Our first year snatching some before the sharks ate it all up, too.

100 points. How do you argue with that, hailing from a vintage that smells perfection head to toe?

Born in 1989, inspired by “Quinta Essence” as the five elements: earth, air, fire, water, and spirit.

This vintage is all about that spirit. Per Robert Parker’s Advocate it’s evident that “This superbly situated estate, off Silverado Trail in eastern Rutherford, is turning out some excellent wines under the leadership of Soto and Chief Winemaker Rebekah Wineburg.”

And let’s save you some time searching around. These are the BEST PRICES by far.

Now the bad news, we have 10 cases of 750s, a few of the Magnums, AND a pair of Double Mags. When they are gone, they are GONE. See them in your cellars, hopefully.

100 Points, Cellar Selection – Wine Enthusiast

“An exquisite wine, relying primarily on Cabernet Sauvignon from a single estate. Aromas of lavender, dried herbs and grapefruit pith combine with flavors of firm fruits and cocoa on a structure of abundant, powder-fine tannin and a mouthwatering finish. This wine is refined, detailed and delicious, with as much elegance as energy. Best 2026-2040.”