2013 Sine Qua Non, Female, California 1x75cl

Robert Parker 98

Manfred’s 2013 Grenache Female checks in as a blend of 78% Grenache, 19% Syrah and 3% Mourvedre that is mostly from his Eleven Confessions estate vineyard in Sta. Rita Hills, yet has smaller portions from his Cumulus, The Third Twin and Bien Nacido vineyards. Seeing just over 24 months in a mix of demi-muids, 300-liter Hog Heads and barrique, it has a sensational bouquet of spring flowers, black raspberries, black cherries, violets, licorice and camphor. Reminding me of a great vintage of Raymond Usseglio’s Cuvee Imperiale, this full-bodied, elegant Grenache is impeccably balanced, has a full and layered mid-palate (which is missing from just about every other Grenache made in California), and sweet tannin on the finish. It’s almost impervious to air and didn’t budge an inch over the three days I followed this bottle. It will cruise for over two decades. [28/09/2017]

Anticipated maturity: 2016-2033

Jeb Dunnuck 98

I m getting down to my last few bottles of the 2013 Grenache Female, which has been incredibly consistent and satisfying over the past 5-7 years and just about impossible to resist. A blend of 78% Grenache, 19% Syrah, and the rest Mourvedre that s mostly from the Eleven Confessions Vineyard in the Sta. Rita Hills, it offers a beautiful, smile-inducing perfume of black raspberries, black cherries, spring flowers, camphor, and spice that develops additional complexity with time in the glass. Impeccably balanced, full-bodied, and opulent, yet also weightless and elegant, this is a thrilling example of Grenache that could come from no one else. Feel free to drink bottles any time over the coming 15-20 years or more. [14/11/2019]

Anticipated maturity: 2019-2039