Product description
Sine Qua Non is a legendary California winery, founded in 1994 by Austrian immigrant Manfred Krankl and his wife Elaine.The winery is famous for its limited-edition, one-of-a-kind bottles, which never have the same name or label—each vintage is an artistic creation.SQN wineries, such as Cumulus , Eleven Confessions , and The Third Twin , are located in the Central Coast region and are managed with a focus on low yields and the highest quality fruit.The main varieties are grape varieties native to the Rhône Valley—primarily Syrah and Grenache , as well as Mourvèdre, Petite Sirah, Viognier, and Roussanne.These wines are characterized by their powerful structure, depth, and aging potential, earning top ratings from critics.Production is very low (about.3,500 cases per year), which means that the availability of these wines is limited mainly to a closed mailing list.SQN bottles fetch astronomical prices on the secondary market and are highly sought after by collectors.It is precisely this combination of artistry, passion, and rarity that makes Sine Qua Non one of the most sought-after wine producers in the world.
2021 Sine Qua Non “Distenta III” Syrah is one of California’s most sought-after wines, made from 81.7% Syrah with additions of Grenache, Mourvèdre, Petite Sirah, Petit Manseng, and Muscat.The grapes come from the iconic SQN vineyards (m.in.Eleven Confessions, The Third Twin, Cumulus), and fermentation took place partly with whole clusters, which enhances the aroma and structure.The wine aged for about.23 months in French oak barrels (more than half of which were new) and partly in concrete, which gave it complexity, power, and a silky texture.What makes these wines exceptional is the combination of their extremely limited production, Manfred Krankl’s artistic approach, and the perfect expression of the Californian terroir—a combination that places them among the absolute “cult wines.”.
Appearance: an intense, deep purple-black color, almost opaque, with violet highlights.
Aroma: black fruits such as blackberries and black currants, cherries, notes of violets and red flowers, followed by earthy and truffle-like accents, espresso, a hint of pepper, and graphite.
Taste: full-bodied, excellent concentration, superb balance between intense fruit and tannins—velvety yet distinct tannins, well-structured acidity, a long, elegant, and complex finish.
Food pairings: It pairs perfectly with lamb, well-seasoned venison, roasted red meats, as well as dishes with mushrooms and aged, stronger cheeses.