Sine Qua Non Distenta II Grenache 2020

The Sine Qua Non wines were founded in 1994 by Manfred and Elaine Krankl in Ventura, on California's Central Coast, the winery can be described as the epitome of an artisanal, cult winery. The estate farms four different vineyards, each with different soils, micro-climates and a different but loving approach, that all share farming practices that are gentle, hands-on, natural (although not certified, they are essentially organic) and consistent. Wines that make you sense they were crafted by people who loved making them. Sine Qua Non, is a Latin phrase that can be translated as ‘absolutely indispensable’.

The husband-and-wife team makes mostly Rhone-style reds and whites in very limited quantities using such grapes as Syrah, Grenache, Pinot Noir, Roussanne, and Viognier. They also grow non-Rhone-origin grapes such as Petit Manseng, Touriga Nacional, Graciano and Petite Sirah. Varieties that work well on a Rhone canvas.

The 2020 Grenache Distenta is a blend of mostly 78% Grenache and the rest Mourvèdre, Syrah, Petite Sirah, and a tiny splash of Viognier. Scents of wild berry jam, burnt orange peel, black tea leaves and coffee beans slowly unravel. The palate is full-bodied yet light on its feet, with juicy, floral flavours and a silky texture woven from layers of super-fine tannins.