Quintessential, the family-owned and operated wine company dedicated exclusively to world-class, multi-generational wineries, proudly highlights the work of winemaker , who brings more than 30 years of expertise to the California wine brands stewarded by the Kreps family, proprietors of Quintessential. Known for crafting wines that are fresh, balanced, and expressive, Irwin applies an Old World sensibility to California vineyards, creating wines that consistently over-deliver at their price point.
A Winemaker with Global Perspective
A graduate of UC Davis, Irwin honed his skills at acclaimed wineries in Napa and Sonoma before expanding his perspective through formative experience in Italy, Spain, and Argentina. Mentored by world-renowned Italian enologist Alberto Antonini, he learned early on that expressive wines begin in the vineyard. Born near Madrid, Irwin’s deep affinity for Spanish food, culture, and wine continues to shape his palate today.
“Derek brings a rare combination of global perspective and deep knowledge of California winemaking,” says Dennis Kreps, co-owner of Quintessential. “He ties those worlds together seamlessly, creating wines that are above all else balanced, fresh, and full of vibrant fruit expression. His craftsmanship and grower relationships are already making a tremendous impact, and we look forward to even more excellence ahead.”
Geyser Peak Winery: A Historic Brand, Revitalized
Founded in 1880, Geyser Peak Winery is one of California’s most storied wine labels. Since coming under the care of the Kreps family in 2020, the brand has been re-energized with a commitment to high-quality sourcing and impactful new packaging.
The refreshed look features a taller label design, elegant gold foil stamping, and clear statements of heritage such as "Family Owned and Operated” and “Produced and Bottled by Geyser Peak Winery in St. Helena, CA.”
Irwin’s current vintages represent some of the best Geyser Peak wines to date:
- Geyser Peak Sauvignon Blanc 2024: Crafted from a diverse selection of lots, delivering freshness, bright acidity, and a fruit-driven style
- Geyser Peak Chardonnay 2024: Blended with premium Napa and Sonoma fruit for added depth and finesse, tasting like a $20+ wine
- Geyser Peak Cabernet Sauvignon 2023: A vibrant blend with Alexander Valley fruit and careful oak integration, showing structure, and balance
Crafted exclusively from Alexander Valley, Walking Tree reflects the region’s hallmark elegance, red-fruit character, and approachable tannins, found in the 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon, while the 2023 Chardonnay offers minerality and freshness with subtle oak restraint. Walking Tree showcases Irwin’s trusted grower relationships and his ability to deliver wines that stand shoulder to shoulder with far more expensive offerings.
XYZin: The Beloved Zinfandel Returns
A celebrated name in California wine, XYZin returns with more energy than ever under Irwin’s direction. With luxurious new packaging and fruit sourced from old vines in Dry Creek Valley, the wine reclaims its place as a hallmark of Zinfandel.
Expressive yet refined, the 2023 XYZin Dry Creek Valley Zinfandel reflects the region’s character with earthiness, vibrant red plum, minerality, and balanced acidity. “XYZin has always captured the adventurous spirit of California,” says Irwin. “With these historic old-vine sites, we’re not just reviving a favorite—we’re raising the standard for what Zinfandel can be.”
Atlas Peak: Napa Valley Power and Precision
At Atlas Peak, Irwin’s focus is on bold structure and site precision. The upcoming 2023 bottling incorporates fruit from Rutherford, Pope Valley, and Yountville, yielding a complex Cabernet Sauvignon with weight, tannin, and depth. Limited releases from the Atlas Peak AVA highlight Irwin’s hands-on vineyard management and restrained use of oak, resulting in powerful yet balanced wines with exceptional aging potential.
About Quintessential
Based in Napa, California, is a premier marketer, importer, and distributor of exclusively family-owned fine wines and spirits representing over 36 family estates, 49 wineries, and two distilleries across 12 countries. Quintessential is committed to showcasing the best expressions of terroir and craftsmanship from around the world.
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