2021 Sine Qua Non Grenache Distenta III
Buying options
Tasting Notes
Based around the Eleven Confessions Vineyard with inclusions from The Third Twin and Cumulus, the 2021 Grenache Distenta III includes 8.4% Syrah, 7.4% Mourvèdre, and 3.2% Petite Sirah with dollops of Petit Manseng and Muscat. The nose here is on the focused and precise side of the roster, driven by vibrant but ripe, extravagant red fruits and aromas of fennel, black pepper and underbrush with touches of alcoholic heat. The palate echoes this relative elegance with a rich yet energetic texture that leads to an herbal, initially latent and reticent finish that expands with further aeration. Again, as found throughout this roster, the wines are undeniably impressive and even admirable in their singular nature. Still, it is impossible to ignore the wine's intrusive alcoholic payload and how this affects its overall balance.
Critic Scores
Average Score
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
Matthew Luczy, Wine Advocate
More reviews and scores
Now in bottle, the 2021 Grenache Distenta III is every bit as magnificent as it was last year. Savory and wildly dynamic in the glass, the 2021 impresses with its energy and overall vibrancy. Dark-toned fruit, lavender, spice and cooling mineral notes all build in this statuesque, dazzling Grenache. The blend is 79% Grenache, 8.4% Syrah, 7.4% Mourvèdre, 3.2% Petite Sirah and 2% Muscat and Petit Manseng. The 35% whole clusters (mostly on the Grenache) add dimension.
About the producer
The brainchild of Manfred Krankl, Sine Qua Non (commonly known as SQN) is a cult California producer whose wines are avidly collected. The winery focuses on Rhône-inspired blends, however is famously non-conformist with each release totally unique.