2021 Sine Qua Non Distenta III Syrah California

"Looking at the new vintages reviewed here, the 2021s come from a cooler, even, balanced year and actually share a similar profile with the 2019s. These are still classic Sine Qua Non releases, but there’s clearly a fresher, elegant vibe, and the wines are flawlessly balanced. In comparison, the 2020s come across as bigger, richer wines that have tons of sexy opulence and richness. As I said above, there are lots of similarities to the 2021s here, and the wines have a beautiful purity and elegance about them without sacrificing depth or richness." ~Jeb Dunnuck.

From its humble beginnings in 1994 with just four and a half barrels of Syrah, aptly named "Queen of Spades," Sine Qua Non has emerged as a beacon of quality and innovation in the world of wine.

Springing forth from a modest garage, the evolution of Manfred into a celebrated cult winery is legendary. Following a seven-year wait, we've finally secured a limited allocation of their coveted wines. These bottles embody exclusivity at its finest.

With a commitment to pushing boundaries and challenging traditions, Sine Qua Non has expanded to encompass four distinct vineyard sites, a dedicated team of hardworking individuals, and a global community of loyal wine enthusiasts. The demand for their wines is so high that a waiting list had to be established—a testament to the unparalleled craftsmanship and undeniable allure of Sine Qua Non.

While rooted in the Rhone tradition, Sine Qua Non embraces diversity, cultivating non-Rhone-origin grapes such as Petit Manseng, Touriga Nacional, Graciano, and Petite Sirah.Each variety is carefully selected to contribute to the rich tapestry of flavors that define Sine Qua Non wines.

At Sine Qua Non, there is no grape growing or winemaking thesis—only a relentless dedication to crafting wines that reflect the essence of Mother Nature and the unique terroir of California. Each glass of Sine Qua Non is a testament to this commitment, offering ripe and flavorful notes balanced by elegance and grace.

The 2021 Sine Qua Non Distenta III Syrah California is a true embodiment of this philosophy. Bursting with ripe fruit flavors and nuanced complexity, this wine is a journey for the senses.Enjoyable in its youth yet destined to evolve and reveal new layers of character with age, it is a wine that invites exploration and celebration.

Aging: 23 months in 53% new French oak, 43% one- to three-year-old barrels and 4% concrete.

81.7% Syrah, 11.3% Grenache, 3.3% Mourvedre, 2.1% Petite Sirah, 0.7% Gelber Muskatelle, 0.9% Petit Manseng. 

I tasted the 2021 Syrah Distenta III as a precise blend from barrel on July 6—it's due to be bottled in August. It comes from three estate vineyards: The Third Twin (51%), Cumulus (26%) and 23% Eleven Confessions (23%). The Syrah is blended with 11.3% Grenache, 3.3% Mourvèdre, 2.1% Petite Sirah, 0.9% Petit Manseng and 0.7% Muscat and was vinified using 21% whole clusters. It matured around 23 months in 53% new French oak, 43% one- to three-year-old barrels and 4% concrete. Opaque ruby-purple in the glass, the Distenta III's aromatic complexity requires plenty of patience, as a singular truffle, earth and coffee bean character gives way to electric streaks of crème de violette, blueberry liqueur and peppermint patty. The palate is medium to full-bodied and exceptionally light on its feet. It glides silkily through the mouth with fireworks of freshness, and its floral fruit is tempered by graphite tones. Around 1,880 cases and 600 magnums are projected to be released in January of 2024. ~98-100 Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

~98-100 The Wine Independent Magazine

Scheduled to be bottled in August, the 2021 Syrah Distenta III looks to be another insanely good Syrah from Krankl. Checking in as 82% Syrah, 11% Grenache, and the rest Mourvèdre, Petite Sirah, and a smattering of white varieties, its deep purple hue is followed by classic, cool climate Syrah notes of smoked black fruits, iron, black olives, and meaty, peppery nuances. With incredibly purity, full-bodied richness, and perfectly integrated tannins and acidity, it will have 15-20 years of prime drinking. It's an absolutely magical Syrah in the making. ~97-99 Jeb Dunnuck

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