2020 Sine Qua Non, Distenta Grenache, California 1x75cl

Jeb Dunnuck 97-100

The 2020 Grenache Distenta II is a blend of mostly 78% Grenache and the rest Mourvedre, Syrah, Petite Sirah, and a tiny splash of Viognier. It’s a ripe, sexy, insanely good barrel sample that has remarkable purity, tons of black raspberry and cassis fruits, perfect balance, full-bodied richness, and an already complex bouquet of violets, spice, and flowers. I continue to be blown away by what this estate seems to achieve with Grenache in just about every vintage. [29/08/2022]

Robert Parker 97

The recently bottled 2020 Grenache Distenta 11 is a blend of 77.9% Grenache, 9.4% Mourvedre, 7.9% Syrah, 4.3% Petite Sirah and 0.5% Viognier. Fruit comes entirely from the Krankls’ estate vineyards: Eleven Confessions (40%), Cumulus (33%), The Third Twin (21%) and Molly Aida (6%). It was made with 29% whole clusters, predominantly Grenache. "Ten years ago, I was afraid of whole clusters," Manfred Krankl recalls. "Now, I quite like it, especially on Grenache, a little less so on Syrah." Matured about 23 months in 52% new French oak and demi-muids, it has a deep ruby-purple color and blossoms beautifully in a decanter over several hours, particularly notable for its super-fine texture and detailed aromas and flavors. Its youthfully dense wild berry fruit unfolds to nuances of salami, powdered sugar, olive and potpourri as it airs in the glass. Medium-bodied with pixelated tannins, the palate is lighter on its feet than expected, boasting mouthwatering acidity, ethereal, layered flavors and detailed, spicy accents that fan across the finish. Around 1,630 cases and 600 magnums will be made, due to be released in the spring of 2023. [09/03/2023]

Anticipated maturity: 2025-2040