The 2018 Quintessa Proprietary Red Wine from Napa's Rutherford appellation offers a robust blend predominantly composed of Cabernet Sauvignon (92%), complemented by small percentages of Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Carmenère, and Petit Verdot. This wine, aged for 20 months in French oak (62% new), is noted for its biodynamic and organic cultivation.

James Suckling awarded this wine an outstanding 99 points, describing it as "beautifully polished" with "firm, dusty tannins" and a "soft, creamy finish." He highlights its earthy characteristics, from mushrooms to bark, and suggests that it will improve further after 2023.

Wine Enthusiast also praised this vintage with a near-perfect score of 98 points. Virginie Boone emphasized its "complexity and energy," noting its "berry fruit, textured and refined tannin" along with hints of "lavender, licorice and sage."

Decanter's review by Jane Anson offered a score of 96 points, calling it "slick and well made" with notes of "coffee mocha and butterscotch." Anson appreciated its ability to deliver pleasure while maintaining freshness.

Vinous, while awarding it 93 points, described it as a "powerful, driving Napa Valley wine" with "scorched earth, iron, chocolate, and leather" accents. This review noted the wine's tightness in a generally more open-knit vintage.

Jeb Dunnuck also gave it 96+ points, remarking on its "remarkable purity" and "balanced, layered, incredibly seamless style," predicting its evolution over the next 20-25 years.

Overall, the 2018 Quintessa Proprietary Red Wine is characterized by its complex flavor profile and excellent aging potential, receiving high praise from multiple reviewers for its elegance and refinement.