Sine Qua Non Distenta I Grenache 2019 (750 ml)

Tasting Notes For Sine Qua Non Distenta I Grenache 2019

Sine Qua Non Distenta I Grenache 2019 is a truly exceptional wine that exemplifies the mastery of winemaking. From the moment the bottle is opened, it exudes an alluring aroma of ripe red fruits, including succulent raspberries and sun-kissed strawberries, intertwined with delicate floral notes of violets and lavender. These fragrances create an inviting bouquet that promises a sensory journey of depth and complexity.

Upon the first sip, the wine unfurls its vibrant personality on the palate. The red fruit medley continues to captivate, with the addition of juicy pomegranate and a hint of cranberry, offering a harmonious blend of sweetness and tartness. The Grenache's characteristic spiciness emerges gracefully, presenting subtle accents of white pepper and clove, which complement the fruit profile beautifully. The wine's texture is plush and velvety, supported by refined tannins that provide structure without overpowering. As the tasting experience evolves, nuances of dark chocolate and a touch of earthiness add further layers of intrigue. The finish is enduring, leaving an indelible memory of the wine's luscious fruitiness and a touch of elegant spice.

Critic Ratings

Jeb Dunnuck - Rated 99:

The 2019 Grenache Distenta I, which was tasted from bottle, is cut from the same cloth as the 2020, although it's a touch more focused and elegant. Black raspberries, white pepper, new saddle leather, and beautiful floral and spicy notes all soar from the glass, and it's medium to full-bodied, with a seamless, layered mouthfeel, beautiful tannins, and a great finish. The blend is 76% Grenache, 9.3% Syrah, 8% Mourvèdre, and the rest Petite Sirah and Viognier that saw 43.5% whole clusters and 23 months in 26% new French oak, with 6.8% in concrete and the balance in used oak. It's another sensational wine from this estate that flirts with perfection.

Robert Parker's Wine Advocate - Rated 98:

The 2019 Grenache Distenta I is composed of 76% Grenache, 8% Mourvèdre, 9.3% Syrah, 4.3% Petite Sirah and 2.4% Viognier. The vineyard sources are 11% Cumulus Estate, 39% The Third Twin Estate, 32% Eleven Confessions Estate, 3% Molly Aida and 15% Bien Nacido vineyard. Around 43% whole cluster was performed, predominately on the Grenache. The small proportion of Viognier was co-fermented with red grapes, but interestingly, because it ripens earlier than the reds, the white berries were frozen and added to the reds at the time of fermentation. As an added bonus, these frozen grapes help to cool and, therefore, slow the fermentation. The wine was aged for around 23 months in 26.5% new French oak, 66.7% used oak and 6.8% concrete. It was bottled June 21, 2021. Medium to deep garnet-purple it bursts with profound perfume of black raspberries, boysenberries and cherry preserves, leading to an undercurrent of charcuterie, charcoal, bouquet garni and aniseed. Notions of red roses and garrigue reward patient swirling and coaxing. The full-on full-bodied palate is wonderfully opulent, its intensity offset by fantastic freshness, finishing long with a savory dried herb-laced lift.