adjective / noun
(adjective) representing the high quality and lasting value of something;
(adjective) relating to or preserving the distinctive qualities of an earlier era or style; (noun) a date or period indicating when something was made, especially wine; (noun) a person's peer group.
Imagine a vintner, a wine expert, carefully selecting grapes from a vine. The best grapes produce a "vintage" wine, implying quality and a specific, valuable time period. The word "vintner" is a subtle hint to its connection with wine and old traditions.