Wine Critic
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Sine Qua Non Distenta IV Grenache 2022
Varietal: 78% Grenache, 10% Syrah, 7.3% Mourvedre.
This wine is a true celebration of Grenache, with a composition of 78.0% Grenache, 10.0% Syrah, 7.3% Mourvedre, 3.0% Petite Sirah, and 1.7% Whites (a blend of 0.6% Gelber Muskateller and 1.1% Petit Manseng). Each component plays a crucial role in the overall profile.The fruit is sourced from the estate vineyards: 35.3% from Eleven Confessions Vineyard, 35.3% from The Third Twin Vineyard, and 29.4% from Cumulus Vineyard. Interestingly, Eleven Confessions and The Third Twin contribute the same percentage. 43% of the fruit was fermented whole cluster (all Grenache), while the rest was destemmed. Only 16% new French oak was used, primarily in Demi-Muids (600+ liters) rather than traditional barrels (228 liters). This approach allows the pristine fruit to shine without being overshadowed by oak. The final tasting notes, though brief, are decisive: the wine boasts an amazingly dark, beautiful, and radiant color. It is lush, complex, and inviting—simply superb. The winemakers, E & M, have expressed their love for this wine, highlighting its exceptional quality.
Tasting Notes:
"The 2022 Grenache Distenta IV combines nearly equal portions of Eleven Confessions, The Third Twin and Next of Kyn Vineyards. It contains 10% Syrah, 7.3% Mourvèdre, 3% Petite Sirah and small amounts of Muscat and Petit Manseng aged for 23 months in 16% new French oak. The nose leads with lavish red-fruited aromas, a pleasant floral lift and touches of crushed stones, dried herbs and bright spices. The palate combines a concentrated core of dense but juicy fruit flavors with deft acidity and a seamless, sophisticated texture. The finish is coiled and latent before unwinding and growing more expansive, detailed and blue-fruited with time in the glass. Once this is released in January 2025, I recommend that fans of this style take advantage of the youthful harmony on display here." - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate.