NAPA, Calif., February 10, 2026 — Quintessential, the family-owned wine company dedicated to representing world-class, multi-generational producers, today announced it has been named national distributor for Dakota Shy, one of Napa Valley’s most compelling boutique wineries. The partnership marks another significant addition to Quintessential’s growing California portfolio, reinforcing its commitment to bringing top-quality, legacy-driven Napa Valley producers to markets nationwide.
“Dakota Shy represents everything we look for in a winery partner—deep roots, an uncompromising commitment to quality, and a clear vision for excellence,” said Dennis Kreps, co-owner of Quintessential. “They are a true Napa Valley gem, crafting sophisticated, site-driven wines from some of the region’s most respected vineyards. We’re proud to welcome Dakota Shy to our national portfolio.”
Founded in 2012 by friends and business partners, Dakota Shy was created with a singular goal: to craft Napa Valley wines that could stand alongside the best in the world. Now in its 14th year, the winery has earned outstanding ratings across every vintage and has been included twice in Wine Spectator’s Top 100 Wines. Original partner and winemaker Tom Garrett leads the estate alongside General Manager Ryan Clark, guiding a talented team dedicated to elevating both the wines and the guest experience.
Today, Dakota Shy partners with 16 exceptional vineyard sites throughout Napa Valley, sourcing from iconic regions including Pritchard Hill, Howell Mountain, Mount Veeder, Atlas Peak, Oakville, Rutherford, St. Helena, Calistoga, Stags Leap, Oak Knoll, and Pope Valley. By working with both historic vineyards and next-generation sites destined for greatness, Garrett harnesses diverse soils, elevations, and exposures to craft Cabernets that are powerful, complex, and sophisticated.
Dakota Shy is located on a historic estate at the base of Pritchard Hill, with roots dating back to 1836. Acquired in 2014, the property is now home to a world-class winery that honors Napa Valley’s rich heritage while providing a modern setting for hospitality, surrounded by redwoods, magnolias, and estate olive groves.
“Dakota Shy is thrilled to be partnering with Quintessential for national distribution and marketing,” said Tom Garrett, winemaker and partner of Dakota Shy. “Our core business has been making limited-production, world-class Napa Valley Cabernet and selling direct to consumers. Expanding on that with Quintessential to develop a national presence opens great opportunities to introduce our wines to new customers around the country. Beyond their impressively run business, one of the critical pieces for us was Quintessential’s focus on family, they are family-owned and place a strong emphasis on working with family-owned wineries around the world.”
Two Dakota Shy wines are now available nationally through Quintessential:
2024 Napa Valley Sauvignon Blanc Aromatic with notes of citrus and peach blossom, the palate has a creamy texture balanced by vibrant acidity, with citrus, herbs, and subtle brioche notes. Fermented in both French oak and stainless steel and sourced equally from Rutherford’s McDonnell Vineyard and Bentz Vineyard in Pope Valley, this Sauvignon Blanc delivers both freshness and depth.
2023 Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon A rich yet refined expression of Napa Valley, offering silky dark fruits, mineral tones, and baking spice, with an impressive, lingering finish. Crafted primarily from hillside vineyards and aged 18 months in 70% new French oak, it showcases density, polish, and elegance.
About Quintessential
Based in Napa, California, Quintessential is a premier marketer, importer, and distributor of exclusively family-owned fine wines and spirits, representing more than 50 family wineries and two distilleries across 12 countries. Quintessential is dedicated to showcasing the world’s finest expressions of terroir and craftsmanship.
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