2021 Sine Qua Non "Distenta III" Central Coast White Blend ($219.99)

100 points Jeb Dunnuck: "An absolute blockbuster of a white as well as a perfect wine, the 2021 Distenta III White offers up a vivid gold hue as well as incredible aromatics of stone fruits, toasted bread, green almond, and fresh croissants. This is no lightweight quaffer, and it brings full-bodied richness and depth while at the same time staying flawlessly balanced, light on its feet, pure, and precise. This heavenly white will benefit from a year in bottle and, I suspect, have over a decade of prime drinking, although I see no need to push the aging curve. The blend is 33% Chardonnay, 27% Viognier, 24% Gelber Muskateller, 12% Roussanne, and the rest Petit Manseng, with the élevage spanning 23 months in 53% new oak." (08/2024)

94 points Vinous: "The 2021 White Wine Distenta III is a wild, exotic white. Ginger, passion fruit, spice and lemon confit are all woven together in the glass. Extended lees-stirring of 8-12 months really builds texture. The 2021 is rich and creamy but not at all heavy. Intensely perfumed overtones extend the finish. The Distenta III is a gorgeous wine in every way. The blend is 33% Chardonnay, 27% Viognier, 24% Gelber Muskateller, 12% Roussanne and 4% Petit Manseng. This is the first vintage with a high percentage of Muscat, an approach that is so successful here. (AG)" (07/2024)

93 points Wine Advocate: "The 2021 White Wine Distenta III blends 33% Chardonnay, 27% Viognier, 24% Gelber Muskateller, 12% Roussanne and 4% Petit Manseng, the latter pair co-fermented. It hails mainly from the Eleven Confessions Vineyard, with inclusions from The Third Twin and Cumulus. It spent 23 months in 52% new French puncheon and demi-muids. The nose is extremely floral and exuberant, with honeyed, exotic aromas of stone fruit, citrus oil, pine needles, mint and noticeable alcohol after increased aeration. The palate is weighty and oily, centered around a decedent core of polished stone fruit flavors underpinned by tangy acidity. The finish is texturally clean and focused but gradually develops to reveal distracting, spirituous sensations. (ML)" (08/2024)

K&L Notes: Praise for the 2021 vintage at Sine Qua Non from Jeb Dunnuck: "Looking at the new vintages reviewed here, the 2021s come from a cooler, even, balanced year and actually share a similar profile with the 2019s. These are still classic Sine Qua Non releases, but there’s clearly a fresher, elegant vibe, and the wines are flawlessly balanced." (08/2023)

2021 Sine Qua Non "Distenta III" California Syrah ($329.99)

98-100 points Wine Advocate: "I tasted the 2021 Syrah Distenta III as a precise blend from barrel on July 6it's due to be bottled in August. It comes from three estate vineyards: The Third Twin (51%), Cumulus (26%) and 23% Eleven Confessions (23%). The Syrah is blended with 11.3% Grenache, 3.3% Mourvèdre, 2.1% Petite Sirah, 0.9% Petit Manseng and 0.7% Muscat and was vinified using 21% whole clusters. It matured around 23 months in 53% new French oak, 43% one- to three-year-old barrels and 4% concrete. Opaque ruby-purple in the glass, the Distenta III's aromatic complexity requires plenty of patience, as a singular truffle, earth and coffee bean character gives way to electric streaks of crème de violette, blueberry liqueur and peppermint patty. The palate is medium to full-bodied and exceptionally light on its feet. It glides silkily through the mouth with fireworks of freshness, and its floral fruit is tempered by graphite tones. (EB)" (08/2023)

100 points The Wine Independent: "The 2021 Syrah Distenta III is sourced from The Third Twin (51%), Cumulus (26%), and Eleven Confessions (23%) vineyards. The blend is 81.7% Syrah with 11.3% Grenache, 3.3% Mourvedre, 2.1% Petite Sirah, 0.9% Petit Manseng, and 0.7% Muscat. It was made using 21% whole clusters and then aged around 23 months in 53% new French oak, 43.1% one- to three-year-old barrels, and 3.9% concrete. Deep purple-black colored, it needs some coaxing and swirling before the nose erupts with a mushroom cloud of blackberry preserves, kirsch, and red roses scents, giving way to hints of bacon fat, tar, and espresso, plus a touch of wild sage. Full-bodied, the palate is incredibly bright and vibrant with beautifully defined black and red fruit flavor layers, supported by very fine-grained tannins and bold freshness, finishing long and shimmery. Stunning. (LPB)" (09/2024)

98 points Vinous: "The 2021 Syrah Distenta III is another magnificent offering in this great vintage. A wine of penetrating depth and vibrancy, the 2021 explodes onto the palate with copious dark fruit, new leather, licorice and spice. It possesses statuesque energy and pedigree to burn. The Distenta III is one of my favorite recent SQN wines. The blend is 81.7% Syrah, 11.3% Grenache, 3.3% Mourvèdre, 2.1% Petite Sirah and 1.6% Muscat and Petit Manseng. (AG)" (08/2024)

97 points Jeb Dunnuck: "A great example of the cooler style of the vintage, the 2021 Syrah Distenta III has quintessential Syrah notes of ripe darker berry fruits, ground pepper, violets, and assorted smoky, meaty, subtly bloody-like nuances. With medium to full-bodied richness, flawless overall balance, and ultra-fine tannins, it picks up a beautiful floral character with time in the glass and reminds me of a great vintage of Guigal's Côte Rôtie La Mouline. Give bottles 4-5 years if you can, count yourself lucky, and enjoy over the following 15-20 years. The 2021 is 82% Syrah and 11% Grenache, with the balance Mourvèdre, Petite Sirah, and white varieties. It was fermented with 21% while clusters and spent 23 months in 53% new French oak. (JD) 97+" (08/2024)

2021 Sine Qua Non "Distenta III" California Grenache ($299.99)

98 points Jeb Dunnuck: "The 2021 Grenache Distenta III shows the cooler, more elegant style of the vintage, yet it's still 100% Sine Qua Non goodness with its richness and concentration. Beautiful black raspberries, ground pepper, sandalwood, and sappy flower notes are just some of the nuances in this beauty, and it hits the palate with full-bodied richness, a pure, layered, seamless mouthfeel, beautifully polished tannins, and a great, great finish. Give it 2-3 years and enjoy over the following 15+. The 2021 is 79% Grenache, 8.4% Syrah, 7.4% Mourvedre, and the rest Petite Sirah and white varieties, fermented with 35% whole clusters, all aged 23 months in just 42% new barrels." (08/2024)

98 points The Wine Independent: "The 2021 Grenache Distenta III is composed of 79% Grenache, 8.4% Syrah, 7.4% Mourvèdre, 3.2% Petite Sirah, 1.6% Petit Manseng, and 0.4% Muscat. It was made using around 34.7% whole clusters, mainly of the Grenache, and was aged for around 23 months in French oak, mostly larger demi-muids barrels, 42.3% new.It reveals a moderately deep ruby-purple color. Upon smellingwow! The incredible perfume rockets from the glass: black raspberries, kirsch, black currants, and violets, leading to underlying hints of tar, black truffles, and damp soil. The full-bodied palate delivers a rock-solid structure of firm, finely grained tannins and a refreshing line, perfectly framing the bright, well-defined black and red berry flavors, finishing long and earthy. Simply gorgeous. (LPB)" (09/2024)

98 points Vinous: "Now in bottle, the 2021 Grenache Distenta III is every bit as magnificent as it was last year. Savory and wildly dynamic in the glass, the 2021 impresses with its energy and overall vibrancy. Dark-toned fruit, lavender, spice and cooling mineral notes all build in this statuesque, dazzling Grenache. The blend is 79% Grenache, 8.4% Syrah, 7.4% Mourvèdre, 3.2% Petite Sirah and 2% Muscat and Petit Manseng. The 35% whole clusters (mostly on the Grenache) add dimension. (AG)" (07/2024)

2020 Sine Qua Non "Eleven Confessions Vineyard" Central Coast Syrah - 10 available ($399.99)

99 points Jeb Dunnuck: "One of those singular, powerhouse wines that will stop anyone in their tracks (well, its stopped me anyways), the 2020 Syrah Eleven Confessions Vineyard offers an insane nose of bloody red and blue fruits, ground pepper, graphite, cured meats, and baking spices, with some classic Sta. Rita Hills marine/salty sea breeze-like nuances. With a dense, powerful mouthfeel, full-bodied aromas and flavors, massive fruit, and building tannins, this beauty is going to benefit from 2-4 years in the cellar and blow you away over the following two decades. It reminds me of the 2005 Nail in my Cranium with its massive, powerful, yet flawlessly balanced style, and I wouldnt be surprised to see this evolve along the same trajectory as that wine. The 2020 is 84% Syrah, 12% Grenache, and the rest Petite Sirah and white varieties, fermented with one quarter whole clusters and aged 38 months in 58% new oak." (08/2024)

98 points Vinous: "The 2020 Syrah Eleven Confessions Vineyard is a dark, exotic beauty. Rich, sumptuous and layered in the glass, the 2020 is classic Sine Qua Non from start to finish. Silky tannins wrap around a core of inky red/purplish fruit, lavender, rose petal and mint, building into a stunning crescendo of aromas, flavors and textures. What a wine. The blend is 84% Syrah, 11.5% Grenache, 2.3% Petite Sirah and 2.2% Viognier and Golden Muskateller. (AG)" (07/2024)

K&L Notes: Jeb Dunnuck's notes on the producer: "I’ve been visiting with Sine Qua Non for a decade now, and I never cease to be amazed at the quality consistently coming from this address. In addition, Krankl somehow manages to deliver brilliance with just about any variety out there, and whether it’s Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre, Touriga Nacional, Roussanne, or even Petit Manseng, you can expect a truly riveting wine, as well as a wine with singular characteristics. Unfortunately, it’s all too common, particularly for those who don’t drink the wines often, to assume all California cult wines are over-ripe or heavy. The reality, however, couldn’t be more different, and great wines deliver intensity and depth while staying light on their feet and elegant. And these latest releases from Sine Qua Non are great wines." (08/2022)

2020 Sine Qua Non "Eleven Confessions Vineyard" Central Coast Grenache - 8 available ($399.99)

100 points Jeb Dunnuck: "The 2020 Grenache Eleven Confessions Vineyard is another absolutely heavenly wine from this estate, and it's easily one of the top wines from California in 2020. Darker berries, tapenade, roasted herbs, and a bloody, iron-like character define the aromatics, and it hits the palate with full-bodied richness, a deep, stacked mid-palate, velvety tannins, and a great, great finish. It reminds me of a Châteauneuf du Pape from the likes of Jean-Paul Daumen and is a tour de force in Grenache that I wish every reader could taste. Coming from a hot growing season, this beauty is powerful and full throttle, yet like all of Manfred's wines, it holds onto a sense of purity, balance, and elegance that's something to behold. Drink bottles any time over the coming two decades. The blend is 82% Grenache, 13% Syrah, 3% Petite Sirah, and the rest Gelber Muskateller, fermented with 27% whole clusters, and aged 38 months in 41% new French oak." (08/2024)

98 points Vinous: "Another stellar wine in this range, the 2020 Grenache Eleven Confessions Vineyard is every bit as compelling as it was from barrel. A wine of exquisite aromatic presence and nuance, the 2020 is all class. It shows all the natural richness that is such a signature here while retaining gorgeous, open-knit aromatics that resonate off a rich core of fruit. Raspberry and pomegranate open first, followed by exotic, tropical fruit accents that build in the glass. This is such a distinctive wine shaped by a touch of Gelber Muskateller in the blend that adds flair. The blend is 82% Grenache, 12.1% Syrah, 3.3% Petite Sirah and 1.6% Gelber Muskateller, all from Eleven Confessions. (AG)" (07/2024)

93 points Wine Advocate: "Supported by 13.1% Syrah, 3.3% Petite Sirah, and 1.6% Gelber Muskateller, the 2020 Grenache Eleven Confessions Vineyard is a barrel selection featuring the site's most concentrated blocks. It was fermented with 27% whole clusters and spent 38 months in 41% new French demi-muids. The nose is an opaque mixture of black fruits with aromas of tar, asphalt, espresso beans, touches of dried herbs and a slight menthol-tinged ethanol astringency. The texture is polished and perfectly composed around a decadent, concentrated core of juicy fruit-dominated flavors. (ML)" (08/2024)

K&L Notes: Jeb Dunnuck's notes on the producer: "I’ve been visiting with Sine Qua Non for a decade now, and I never cease to be amazed at the quality consistently coming from this address. In addition, Krankl somehow manages to deliver brilliance with just about any variety out there, and whether it’s Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre, Touriga Nacional, Roussanne, or even Petit Manseng, you can expect a truly riveting wine, as well as a wine with singular characteristics. Unfortunately, it’s all too common, particularly for those who don’t drink the wines often, to assume all California cult wines are over-ripe or heavy. The reality, however, couldn’t be more different, and great wines deliver intensity and depth while staying light on their feet and elegant. And these latest releases from Sine Qua Non are great wines." (08/2022)

2020 Sine Qua Non "Distenta II" California Syrah ($329.99)

99 points Jeb Dunnuck: "A wine that just about tops out the scale, the 2020 Syrah Distenta II (83% Syrah, 8% Grenache, 4% Mourvèdre, and the balance Petite Sirah and mixed whites) is a more exuberant, spicy, incredibly complex Syrah offering assorted red and black fruits, ground pepper, flowery incense, tobacco, and cured meat nuances in its full-bodied, flawlessly balanced, layered, elegant style. Coming 43% from the Third Twin, 33% Eleven Confessions, 21% Cumulus, and the rest from the Molly Aida vineyards (all of which are estate), it saw slightly less whole clusters compared to the 2021 and spent 23 months in 66% new French oak. Anyone questioning the genius of Manfred Krankl needs to taste this wine." (08/2023)

99 points The Wine Independent: "The 2020 Syrah Distenta II is a blend of 82.9% Syrah, 7.5% Grenache, 3.9% Mourvedre, 3.4% Petite Sirah, 1.5% Muscat, and 0.8% Petit Manseng. The vineyard sources are The Third Twin (43%), Eleven Confessions (32%), Cumulus (21%), and Molly Aïda (3%)all estate-owned vineyards. The fermentation included 16% whole clusters, and it was aged for 23 months in 66% new French oak. Gregarious scents of charcoal, lilacs, licorice, and boysenberry preserves swan out of the glass, giving way to hints of wild sage, fragrant earth, and tapenade. The full-bodied palate is bright, pure, and shimmery, delivering a firm frame of fine-grained tannins and bags of freshness, finishing long and minerally. (LPB)" (08/2023)

98 points Vinous: "The 2020 Syrah Distenta II is outrageously beautiful. Dark and enveloping, the 2020 offers up compelling aromatics, dark, almost somber fruit, and exceptional balance. Broad, chocolatey tannins wrap it all together. Readers will find a super-classic Sine Qua Non Syrah. (AG)" (09/2023)

98 points Wine Advocate: "The 2020 Syrah Distenta II, bottled in late July of 2022, is beginning to tighten ever-so-slightly since I last tasted it in early 2023, although its merits as an archetypal Syrah are still on display. It incorporates fruit from all four estate vineyards: The Third Twin (43%), Eleven Confessions (33%), Cumulus (21%), and Molly Aïda (3%). It's blended with 7.5% Grenache, 3.9% Mourvèdre, 3.4% Petite Sirah, 1.5% Muscat and 0.8% Petit Manseng, was vinified using 16% whole clusters and matured for around 23 months in 66% new French oak barrels. It has a deep ruby color and heart-stopping aromas of blackcurrants, violets, bitter chocolate and coffee grounds, which blossom over time to tones of prosciutto and mint. The full-bodied palate is concentrated yet nuanced with a harmonious balance of powdery tannins and refreshing acidity, and it wears its alcohol expertly. It has a long finish that hints at more savory character to come, but it will require plenty of time in the bottle. 2,000 cases and 600 magnums were made. (EB) 98+" (08/2023)

K&L Notes: Praise from Jeb Dunnuck: "I’ve been visiting with Sine Qua Non for a decade now, and I never cease to be amazed at the quality consistently coming from this address. In addition, Krankl somehow manages to deliver brilliance with just about any variety out there, and whether it’s Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre, Touriga Nacional, Roussanne, or even Petit Manseng, you can expect a truly riveting wine, as well as a wine with singular characteristics. Unfortunately, it’s all too common, particularly for those who don’t drink the wines often, to assume all California cult wines are over-ripe or heavy. The reality, however, couldn’t be more different, and great wines deliver intensity and depth while staying light on their feet and elegant. And these latest releases from Sine Qua Non are great wines." (8/2022)

2020 Sine Qua Non "Distenta II" California Grenache ($299.99)

99 points Jeb Dunnuck: "Tasted out of bottle, the 2020 Grenache Distenta II is total blockbuster stuff that's darker and richer than the 2021. Red and black fruits, white pepper, classy leather, and spicy baking chocolate-like nuances all define the aromatics, and its deep, full-bodied, and beautifully balanced, with gorgeous tannins and a great finish. The blend is 78% Grenache, 9% Mourvèdre, 8% Syrah, and the rest Petite Sirah (with a splash of Viognier), and it's going to knock your socks off any time over the coming 15+ years." (08/2023)

99 points The Wine Independent: "The 2020 Grenache Distenta II is a blend of 77.9% Grenache, 9.4% Mourvedre, 7.9% Syrah, 4.3% Petite Sirah, and 0.5% Viognier. The vineyard sources are Eleven Confessions (40%), Cumulus (33%), The Third Twin (21%), and Molly Aïda (6%)all estate-owned vineyards. The fermentation included 29.1% of whole clusters. It was aged for around 23 months in French oak barrels of various sizes, 52.1% new. Medium to deep garnet-purple in color, gregarious notes of ripe black plums, blackberry pie, and charcoal jump from the glass, giving way to the perfume of violets, cinnamon toast, and fertile loam with a touch of underbrush. The palate is bold, super-concentrated, full-bodied and impactful, delivering fine-grained tannins and seamless freshness, finishing long and spicy. (LPB)" (08/2023)

97 points Wine Advocate: "I first tasted the Grenache Distenta II from bottle at the beginning of 2023. It has barely budged in the interim and feels expectant, its youthfully compact character waiting patiently to blossom. It comes from all four estate vineyards: Eleven Confessions (40%), Cumulus (33%), The Third Twin (21%) and Molly Aïda (6%). A blend of 77.9% Grenache, 9.4% Mourvèdre, 7.9% Syrah, 4.3% Petite Sirah and 0.5% Viognier, it was vinified using 29% whole clusters (mainly from Grenache) and matured for around 23 months in 52% new French oak of various sizes. Medium ruby in color, it takes plenty of time to unwind in the glass, segueing from streaks of coffee, peppercorn, garrigue and bresaola to a deep core of berry fruit. The medium-bodied palate sits on a razor's edge of concentration and weight, with floral and citrus-tinged fruit, fireworks of fresh acidity and the characteristic, silky smooth texture that's so impressive in the Sine Qua Non wines. (EB)" (08/2023)

96 points Vinous: "The 2020 Grenache Distenta II is a dense, powerful wine. A blast of dark cherry, plum, espresso, menthol, licorice and cloves hits the palate. This rich, heady Grenache delivers the goods. In a vintage that was so hard for Grenache, Elaine and Manfred Krankl found the way to craft a memorable wine. All this needs is time. (AG)" (09/2023)

K&L Notes: Praise from Jeb Dunnuck: "I’ve been visiting with Sine Qua Non for a decade now, and I never cease to be amazed at the quality consistently coming from this address. In addition, Krankl somehow manages to deliver brilliance with just about any variety out there, and whether it’s Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre, Touriga Nacional, Roussanne, or even Petit Manseng, you can expect a truly riveting wine, as well as a wine with singular characteristics. Unfortunately, it’s all too common, particularly for those who don’t drink the wines often, to assume all California cult wines are over-ripe or heavy. The reality, however, couldn’t be more different, and great wines deliver intensity and depth while staying light on their feet and elegant. And these latest releases from Sine Qua Non are great wines." (08/2022)

2019 The Third Twin (Sine Qua Non) "Nuestra Señora del Tercer Gemelo" Central Coast Red Blend Price: Hidden

97-99 points Wine Advocate: "The 2019 Nuestra Senora Del Tercer Gemelo, entirely from The Third Twin estate vineyard, is composed of 33% Grenache, 23.5% Syrah, 19% Mourvèdre, 19% Petite Sirah, 4% Graciano and 1.5% Muskat. 'I love Muskat in red wines, even better than Viognier,' Manfred Krankl enthuses, and I have to agreethis barrel sample offers tremendous aromatic purity and complexity, as if the volume has been turned up and the camera has been focused. It boasts continually shifting, layered aromatics as it spends several hours in the glass: blueberry and blackberry jam, tar, coffee beans, thyme and botanicals, plus loads of floral nuances. Full-bodied yet light on its feet, its concentrated fruits are framed by abundant, super-fine tannins and seamless acidity, and it has a hauntingly long finish. It was made with 19% whole clusters, and matured about 33 months in 13% new French oak, with a large portion of the wine moved to cement tanks after about a year and a half in barrel. (EB)" (05/2022)

98 points Jeb Dunnuck: "The 2019 Nuestra Senora Del Tercer Gemelo comes from the Third Twin estate vineyard, which was purchased in 2000. At that time, the vineyard covered 14.33 acres planted to Syrah and Petite Sirah, and the Krankls planted a mix of different varieties starting in 2011. Today, the estate covers just over 35 acres, and this is a cooler, sandy terroir. The wine sports a deep purple hue as well as a monster bouquet of blackberries, Italian leather, dried herbs, smoke tobacco, and pepper. Full-bodied on the palate, it's another seamless, perfectly balanced red from this team that somehow manages to bring incredible richness and power while staying flawlessly balanced and elegance. A blend of 33% Grenache, 23.5% Syrah, 19% each of Mourvèdre and Petite Sirah, and the rest Graciano and Muscat, fermented with 19% whole clusters, it shows the more elegant, refined, silky style of this terroir beautifully. (JD) 98+" (08/2022)

97 points Vinous: "The 2019 Nuestra Señora del Tercer Gemelo is the fourth vintage from estate vineyard in Los Alamos. Bright and punchy in the glass for such a big wine, the 2019 is so expressive today. Sandy soils lend aromatic presence to play off all that natural intensity. Rose petal, mint, lavender, sage and blood orange perk up a core of bright red/purplish berry fruit as this opulent, full-throttle Syrah-based blend shows off its allure. (AG)" (08/2022)

2019 Sine Qua Non "Eleven Confessions Vineyard" Central Coast Syrah - 9 available ($359.99)

100 points The Wine Independent: "The 2019 Eleven Confessions Vineyard Syrah is deep garnet-black in color. A mushroom cloud of exotic spices and incense erupts from the glass, leading to a core of plum preserves and blueberry pie, plus suggestions of dark chocolate, black truffles, mossy tree bark, and iron ore. The full-bodied palate is densely packed yet remarkably fresh and bright, delivering a solid backbone of fine-grained tannins, finishing on a lingering ferrous note. I love the juxtaposition between power and vibrancy here! The blend is 82% Syrah, 13.1 % Grenache, and 3.3% Petite Sirah, with splashes of Viognier and Gelber Muskateller (a white grape - Muscat Blanc à Petit Grains), all coming from the Krankls' Eleven Confessions vineyard in Sta. Rita Hills. 13% whole cluster was incorporated into the winemaking. It was aged for 39 months in French oak barrels, 66% new, and bottled in January 2023. (LPB)" (08/2023)

99 points Vinous: "The 2019 Syrah Eleven Confessions Vineyard is absolutely gorgeous. I would say it is nearly seamless, but bright acids drive a line of intensity through the fruit, lending notable freshness, tension and energy. All the elements are impeccably balanced in this magnificent, spellbinding Syrah from Elaine and Manfred Krankl. What a wine. (AG)" (09/2023)

99 points Jeb Dunnuck: "A borderline perfect wine is the 2019 Syrah Eleven Confessions Vineyard, and if there was a version of Guigal's Côte Rôtie La Mouline from California, this would be it. Red and black fruits, flowery incense, iron, cured meats, spice box, and background oak all define this sensational wine, and it hits the palate with full-bodied richness, a layered, ultra-fine mouthfeel, no hard edges, and a great finish. It's already just about impossible to resist yet will benefit from 4-5 years of bottle age and evolve for 20-25 years. The blend is 82% Syrah, 13% Grenache, 3% Petite Sirah, and the rest Viognier and Gelber Muskateller, aged 39 months in two-thirds new French oak." (08/2023)

99 points Wine Advocate: "The 2019 Syrah Eleven Confessions Vineyard is elegant and perfumed and includes 13.1% Grenache, 3.3% Petite Sirah and just a splash0.8%each of Viognier and Muskateller (a.k.a Muscat). It was crafted with 13% whole clusters, matured in 66% new French oak for around 39 months and was bottled in January 2022. This gorgeous Syrah opens over several days and never seems to diminish. It offers pure aromas of crème de cassis, tar, salami and ringing tones of violet. The full-bodied palate is incredibly velvety in texture, and despite its concentration and powerful style, it manages noticeable freshness and detail, with that magical violet perfume echoing across the long finish. This will develop gracefully in the cellar over the next two decades or more. (EB)" (06/2023)

K&L Notes: Antonio Galloni for Vinous on the producer: "This is a tremendous set of wines from Elaine and Manfred Krankl. There’s plenty going on at Sine Qua Non these days, starting with a new winery in the Sta. Rita Hills that I was able to see prior to opening. The intensely colored building on Santa Rosa Road is pretty hard to miss. The Krankls expect to move some of their production to this facility in the near future. That could be a pretty big deal for a region that lacks a physical presence of iconic estates. Elaine and Manfred Krankl were visionaries in identifying the eastern sector of the Sta. Rita Hills as an ideal spot for Rhône varieties more than twenty years ago when virtually no one was thinking about Grenache and Syrah here. That spot, which the Krankls define as 'a warm site in a cool region,' is now Eleven Confessions." (07/2023)

2019 Sine Qua Non "Eleven Confessions Vineyard" Central Coast Grenache - 8 available ($399.99)

100 points Jeb Dunnuck: "The late bottled 2019 Grenache Eleven Confessions Vineyard is another undeniably great wine from this incredible estate and it tops out my scale. Based on 89% Grenache, 6% Syrah, 4% Petite Sirah, and the balance Gelber Muskateller (Muscat Blanc), all from the Eleven Confessions Vineyard in the Sta. Rita Hills, it spent 39 months in 50% new French oak, with the balance in 2- to 5-year-old barrels. It's a powerful, full-bodied, opulent Grenache that brings to mind a great vintage of Domaine de Marcoux's Vieilles Vignes with its gorgeous red and black fruits, smoked herbs, leather, and assorted spicy, sandalwood, and peppery nuances. Full-bodied on the palate, it has flawless balance, a deep, layered mid-palate, and velvety tannins. It brings that rare mix of richness and elegance that only Grenache can." (08/2023)

98 points The Wine Independent: "The 2019 Eleven Confessions Vineyard Grenache is deep garnet-black in color. Notes of Christmas pudding, blackberry pie, and boysenberry preserves slowly awaken and emerge before opening out to fragrant suggestions of licorice, Indian spices, potpourri, and chargrill with a touch of cinnamon stick. The full-bodied palate explodes with powerful flavors of black fruit preserves, exotic spices, and floral nuances, paved by velvety tannins with beautiful freshness, finishing long and opulent. Coming 100% from the Krankls' Eleven Confessions Vineyard in Sta. Rita Hills, the blend this year is 89.4% Grenache, 5.5% Syrah, and 4.1% Petite Sirah with a 1% splash of Gelber Muskateller (a white grape - Muscat Blanc à Petit Grains). 35% whole clusters were used in the winemaking. It was aged for around 39 months in French oak barrels, mainly large demi-muids, 50% new. It was bottled in January 2023. 922 cases and 240 magnums were made. (LPB)" (08/2023)

98 points Vinous: "The 2019 Grenache Eleven Confessions Vineyard is a wild, exotic wine. High-toned aromatics meld into a core of dark red/purplish fruit, lavender, rose petal, mint and new leather. There is a touch of volatile acidity that, for me, is not a signature of Sine Qua Non wines. Dollops of Syrah, Petite Syrah and Gelber Muskateller round out the blend. (AG)" (09/2023)

97 points Wine Advocate: "The 2019 Grenache Eleven Confessions Vineyard is made up of 89.4% Grenache, 5.5% Syrah, 4.1% Petite Sirah and 1% Gelber Muskateller (a.k.a. Muscat Blanc à Petits Grains). It was crafted using 35% whole clusters, matured for around 39 months in 50% new French oak barrels and demi-muids and was bottled in January 2022. Deep ruby-purple in color, it takes significant time to open and is mostly coiled and shy on day one. On day two, its aromas unfurl: cherry pie and wild berry jam scents are layered with tones of cured meat, peppercorn, bergamot and wildflowers. The full-bodied palate is seamless and ultra powdery in texture, with balancing bursts of juicy acidity that highlight pretty spice and floral tones that fan across the long finish. It deserves generous cellar time and will be long lived. (EB)" (06/2023)

K&L Notes: Antonio Galloni's notes on the producer for Vinous: "This is a tremendous set of wines from Elaine and Manfred Krankl. There’s plenty going on at Sine Qua Non these days, starting with a new winery in the Sta. Rita Hills that I was able to see prior to opening. The intensely colored building on Santa Rosa Road is pretty hard to miss. The Krankls expect to move some of their production to this facility in the near future. That could be a pretty big deal for a region that lacks a physical presence of iconic estates. Elaine and Manfred Krankl were visionaries in identifying the eastern sector of the Sta. Rita Hills as an ideal spot for Rhône varieties more than twenty years ago when virtually no one was thinking about Grenache and Syrah here. That spot, which the Krankls define as 'a warm site in a cool region,' is now Eleven Confessions." (07/2023)

2019 Sine Qua Non "Distenta I" California Syrah ($299.99)

100 points Wine Advocate: "The 2019 Syrah Distenta I comes entirely from the Krankls' estate vineyards: 35% from The Third Twin, 33% from Eleven Confessions, 31% from Cumulus and 1% from Molly Aïda. It is a blend of 83.6% Syrah, 6.2% Grenache, 5.2% Petite Sirah, 3% Mourvèdre and 2% white grapes (1.4% Muskat and 0.6% Petit Manseng). Fermented with 33% whole clusters and matured for 23 months in 43% new French oak, it has an opaque purple-black color and takes plenty of time in the glass to reveal a core of cassis and accents of sage, lavender, tar and coffee beans. The full-bodied palate is concentrated and still youthfully coiled. It has a fine, grainy texture, fresh acidity and a long, floral finish. (EB) 98+" (05/2022)

100 points The Wine Independent: "Deep garnet-purple, the 2019 Distentia I lets rip with an aria of Morello cherries, blackberry compote, blueberry preserves, and Chinese five spice notes, accompanied by whispers of licorice, tar, Sichuan pepper, and bacon fat. The full-bodied palate is charged with energy and freshness, supported by densely pixilated, fine-grained tannins, finishing with incredible length and resonance. The 2019 Syrah Distenta I is made from 83.6% Syrah, 3% Mourvedre, 5.2% Petite Sirah, 6.2% Grenache, 1.4% Muscat, and 0.6% Petit Manseng. The red winemaking included 33% whole cluster. The vineyard sources for this wine are 35% The Third Twin, 33% Eleven Confessions, 31% Cumulus, and 1% Molly Aidaall estate-owned vineyards. This wine was bottled at the end of July 2021, after 23 months in French oak, 43% new. (LPB)" (08/2022)

98 points Vinous: "The 2019 Syrah Distenta I is gorgeous. Dark, seamless and layered, the 2019 boasts phenomenal balance and intensity. Plush black fruit, plum, licorice, chocolate and incense build as the 2019 gently unfurls in the glass. There's real depth and texture here. Touches of Grenache, Petite Sirah, Mourvèdre, Muscat and Petite Manseng round out the blend. I am not sure what else is left to say about Elaine and Manfred Krankl. I see the same enthusiasm and child-like wonder today that I saw a dozen years ago when I first started tasting here, something that is made all the more remarkable by the passage of time and the natural highs and lows of life that ran through those years. The biggest development at Sine Qua Non is the increasing use, almost exclusively now, of estate fruit. ...The wines are pretty much as they have always been: bold, luscious and imbued with the personality of two of Californias most inspired winemakers. (AG)" (08/2022)

98 points Jeb Dunnuck: "The 2019 Syrah Distenta I is brilliant, and certainly one of the Syrahs of the vintage. Sporting a vivid ruby, almost opaque hue, it offers awesome, textbook Syrah notes of assorted red and blackberry fruits, bacon fat, smoked meat, and an incredible floral character that develops with time in the glass. Medium to full-bodied on the palate, it's a more elegant, restrained Sine Qua Non revealing flawless balance, beautiful freshness and elegance, silky tannins, and one heck of a finish. Still a baby that needs a lengthy decant if drinking any time soon (this bottle showed best on the second day, at which point it was drunk), it will benefit from a solid 4-5 years of bottle age and cruise for two decades after that. (JD) 98+" (08/2022)

2019 Next Of Kyn (Sine Qua Non) "Número Cinco" Central Coast Touriga Nacional Price: Hidden

98 points Wine Advocate: ""Every year I say I won't plant any more Touriga Nacional, and every year I plant more," Manfred Krankl quips. "There is no doubt at all that this grape variety has terrific potential in California." The 2019 Touriga Nacional Número Cinco is composed of 82% Touriga Nacional, 9.5% Mourvèdre, 7.8% Petite Sirah and 0.7% Petit Manseng, and fruit comes entirely from the Cumulus estate vineyard. It was made with 32% whole clusters and matured for about 32 months in 48% new French oak. Opaque purple-black in color, the nose is bursting with boysenberries, tar, Morello cherries, sage and bouquet garni aromas, and the full-bodied palate is packed to the brim with floral fruits. Powerful yet elegant, all that fruit is supported by finely grained tannins and notable juicy acidity that highlights nuanced flavors on the extended finish. Bottled May 11, 2022, and tasted May 24, 2022, it's showing beautifully at this stage just after bottling. Due to its extremely limited production (137 cases and 222 magnums), a single bottle will be sold in each Next of Kyn four-pack. It will be released in the fall of 2022. (EB)" (05/2022)

98 points Vinous: "The 2019 Touriga Nacional Número Cinco marries textural opulence with plenty of structure. Inky dark fruit, chocolate, new leather, incense, spice and graphite infuse the 2019 with tremendous brooding intensity. I would give the 2019 at least a few years in bottle to come together as it is incredibly primary. (AG)" (06/2022)

97 points Jeb Dunnuck: "The deep purple-hued 2019 Touriga Nacional Cumulus Vineyard has to be one of the greatest examples of this variety out there, and Manfred always comments that he finds a certain Rhône-like vibe in this variety. Blue fruits, spring flowers, cracked peppercorns, and violets define the nose, and it's full-bodied, with a rich, layered, concentrated mouthfeel, building, substantial tannins, and an awesome finish. I love its purity of fruit and would happily drink a bottle today, but smart money will give these 2-4 years in the cellar. The blend is 82% Touriga Nacional, 9.5% Mourvèdre, 7.8% Petite Sirah, and the balance a tiny splash of Petit Manseng, fermented with 32% whole clusters, and aged 32 months in 52% new barrels." (08/2022)

97 points The Wine Independent: "The very deep purple-black 2019 Touriga Nacional Numero Cinco is composed of 82% Touriga Nacional, 9.5% Mourvèdre, 7.8% Petite Sirah, and 0.7% Petit Manseng. POW! The nose hits you with stewed plums, chocolate-covered cherries, and baked blueberries scents, followed up by a profound, caressing, fecund earthinesstruffles, crushed rocks, tar, and loam, plus a savory touch of black olives and sautéed herbs. Full-bodied and voluptuous in the mouth, it has sturdy, intriguingly textured tannins with a lively line of acidity lifting all those earthy/savory layers to a long, long finish. Fascinating wine.137 cases and 222 magnums were made. (LPB) 97+" (08/2022)

2019 Next Of Kyn (Sine Qua Non) "Cumulus Vineyard #13" Central Coast Red Blend Price: Hidden

99 points Jeb Dunnuck: "Another straight-up awesome wine is the 2019 No 13 Cumulus Vineyard, a blend 29% each of Grenache and Mourvèdre, 24.5% Syrah, 8% Touriga Nacional, 7.5% Petite Sirah, and 2% Petit Manseng. Kirsch, toasted spices, new leather, graphite, and peppery notes all emerge from this ripe, sexy, seamless, and incredibly compelling red. Full-bodied and concentrated, it stays light on its feet, has beautiful tannins, and a great finish. If this doesn't put a smile on your face, I don't know what will. It's brilliant today yet should easily evolve for 15 years or more. (I expect it will evolve like a great Châteauneuf du Pape.)" (08/2022)

99 points Wine Advocate: "Still in barrel, the 2019 Cumulus Vineyard No. 13 also contains less Syrah than in the pastthis iteration is composed of 29% Grenache, 29% Mourvèdre, 24.5% Syrah, 8% Touriga Nacional, 7.5% Petite Sirah and 2% Petit Manseng. It was made using 22% whole clusters and matured for about 32 months in 62% new French oak. Deep ruby-purple in the glass, it has a core of blackberry jam and Morello cherries, unfolding slowly to nuances of violet and loamy earth. Full-bodied and concentrated, its super-fine tannins and juicy acidity balance the expression, and it has a tremendously long finish with loads of floral perfume. It's showing fantastically despite its recent bottling on May 11, 2022I tasted it on May 24, 2022. 369 cases and 222 magnums will be released in the fall of 2022. It will be sold as part of a four-bottle set that will include one bottle of Next of Kyn Touriga Nacional. (EB)" (05/2022)

98 points Vinous: "The 2019 No. 13 Cumulus Vineyard is fabulous. Inky and savory, the 2019 offers up a compelling mélange of black fruit, gravel, incense and spice that all come together. The combination of a warm site and a coolish vintage yields a superb, wonderfully complete red. Grippy tannins and a touch of whole cluster savoriness extend the finish. The blend is 29% Grenache, 29% Mourvèdre, 24.5% Syrah, 8% Touriga Nacional, 7.5% Petite Sirah and 2% Petit Manseng. (AG)" (08/2022)

2018 The Third Twin (Sine Qua Non) "Nuestra Señora del Tercer Gemelo" Central Coast Red Blend ($299.99)

100 points Jeb Dunnuck: "The 2018 Nuestra Senora Del Tercer Gemelo checks in as a Petite Sirah-dominated blend that includes 22.1% Mourvèdre, 11.5% Graciano, and 3.4% Viognier. Its the finest Petite Sirah to ever pass my lips and tops out my scale. Insanely good cassis, iron, bloody blue fruits, violets, graphite, and peppery herbs all emerge on the nose, and it hits the palate with full-bodied richness, a deep, layered, incredibly seamless texture, no hard edges, and a brilliant finish. Hats off to Monsieur Krankl I have no idea how he was able to make a Petite Sirah this good." (08/2021)

98 points Wine Advocate: "This is the third edition of this single-vineyard cuvée from The Third Twin estate in Los Alamos, as a follow-up to last years 'Nuestra Senora Del Tercer Gemola,' but this time the core of the blend is Petite Sirah as opposed to Grenache and Mourvedre, 'just to keep it fresh,' said Manfred Krankl. Purchased by Elaine and Manfred in 2010, The Third Twin is a medium-warm site. The soil is almost pure sand, and it is mainly planted to Syrah, Petite Sirah and Mourvedre, with smaller plantings of Graciano.The 2018 Nuestra Senora Del Tercer Gemolo is a blend of 63% Petite Sirah, 22.1% Mourvèdre, 11.5% Graciano and 3.4% Viognier, employing 28% whole clusters. This wine was bottled on May 20, 2021, after spending 32 months in French oak, 42% new.Deep purple-black colored, the glass needed a fair bit of swirling to unlock this wines wonderfully pure scents of baked black plums, blackberry pie and boysenberries, leading to an undercurrent of fruitcake, Indian spices, unsmoked cigars and cracked black pepper. The full-bodied palate is a powerhouse of fruit, bursting with black berry preserves and exotic spice layers, framed with a solid line of firm, ripe tannins and wonderful freshness, finishing with incredible persistence and purity. This beautiful monster of a wine should be pretty much indestructible, capable of cellaring for 40+ years. (LPB) 98+" (08/2021)

98 points Vinous: "The 2018 Nuestra Señora del Tercer Gemelo is based on Petite Sirah this year. Rich and ample and explosive, the 2018 is wonderfully exotic, dense and full-throttle. Blackberry jam, chocolate, spice, menthol and licorice are some of the notes that literally explode out of the glass. The 2018 was just bottled, but is already dazzling. In the 2018, the wine is far more Petite Sirah-dominant than it has been in the past. (AG)" (10/2021)

2018 Sine Qua Non "Ziehharmonika" California Syrah ($299.99)

99 points Jeb Dunnuck: "Checking in as 82% Syrah, 6.7% Mourvèdre, and the rest Petite Sirah and Grenache, the 2018 Syrah Ziehharmonika was largely destemmed and brought up in 51% new French oak. Gorgeous crème de cassis, smoked game, bacon fat, and spring flower notes all soar from the glass of this beauty, and it hits the palate with full-bodied richness, ripe, building tannins, and a rare mix of richness and freshness." (08/2021)

99 points Wine Advocate: "Medium to deep garnet-purple coloredWOWperfumed black and blue fruits prance out of the glass, revealing accents of candied violets and cinnamon stick, supporting the plum preserves, blackberry compote and garrigue-scented core, plus hints of molten dark chocolate, licorice, Chinese five spice and bacon with a touch of iron ore. The densely laden, full-bodied palate is seriously showy, featuring flamboyant black fruit preserves and exotic spice layers with a solid backbone of ripe, rounded tannins and bold freshness, finishing with epic length and loads of earth, pepper and floral fireworks. (LPB)" (08/2021)

98 points Vinous: "The 2018 Syrah Ziehharmonika is every bit as captivating from bottle as it was in barrel. In this tasting, the Ziehharmonika stands out for its soaring aromatic complexity and character. Black pepper, lavender, mint, spice and blueberry add a striking upper register of aromatics. Vivid and wonderfully deep, the 2018 is going to need a number of years to come into its own. What a wine! (AG)" (10/2021)

2018 Sine Qua Non "Profuga" California Grenache ($299.99)

98 points Jeb Dunnuck: "Tasted out of bottle, the 2018 Grenache Profuga is firmer and more focused than the 2019 and has deep, layered, full-bodied style as well as ample pepper, iron, and herbes de Provence like nuances all grounded by a massive core of cassis, kirsch, and assorted berry fruits. The 2018s from this estate are brilliant across the board and shine for their purity, focus, and precision." (08/2021)

98 points Wine Advocate: "The 2018 Grenache Profuga is composed of 77.5% Grenache, 10% Mourvedre, 8.3% Syrah, 3.3% Petite Sirah and 0.9% Viognier. The vineyard sources are 38% Cumulus Estate, 35% The Third Twin Estate, 23% Eleven Confessions Estate and 4% Bien Nacido vineyard. Forty-one percent 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, the white berries are 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. (LPB)" (08/2021)

96 points Vinous: "The 2018 Grenache Profuga is a rich, heady wine. Black cherry, chocolate, new leather, spice and scorched earth give the 2018 its distinctly dark, brooding personality. Tasted next to the 2018, the 2019 is quite a bit darker and more potent. (AG)" (10/2021)

2018 Sine Qua Non "Eleven Confessions Vineyard" Central Coast Grenache - 8 available ($389.99)

100 points Jeb Dunnuck: "The 2018 Grenache Eleven Confessions Vineyard comes all from the estate vineyard located on the eastern side of the Sta. Rita Hills and is even more Grenache-dominated, checking in at close to 84% Grenache with 9% Syrah, 6% Petite Sirah, and the rest Viognier. Aged a whopping 38 months in 52% new barrels, it has an insane bouquet of black raspberries, herbes de Provence, violets, mulled cherries, sandalwood, and new leather. As complex and nuanced as they come, this full-bodied beauty has awesome purity of fruit, a layered, balanced mouthfeel, sweet, fine-grained tannins, and a great, great finish. It's one of those wines that makes you run out of adjectives. One of the finest examples of Grenache to pass my lips, give it 2-3 years and enjoy over the following two decades." (08/2022)

100 points The Wine Independent: "The 2018 Grenache Eleven Confessions Vineyard is a blend of 83.7% Grenache, 9.1% Syrah, 6% Petite Sirah, and 1.2% Viognier. Medium to deep garnet-purple in color, notes of black raspberries, stewed black and red plums, and boysenberry preserves waft effortlessly from the glass with an evocative undercurrent of garrigue, underbrush, wild sage, and rose oil. Full-bodied, the savory laced palate shimmers with energy, framed by very fine-grained, densely pixilated tannins and beautiful freshness, finishing with jaw-dropping length and minerality. (LPB)" (08/2022)

99 points Wine Advocate: "The 2018 Grenache Eleven Confessions Vineyard is a barrel selection and is composed of 83.7% Grenache, 9.1% Syrah, 6% Petite Sirah and 1.2% Viognier. It was fermented with 45% whole clusters and matured for about 38 months in 52% new French oak barrels and demi-muids. It has a deep ruby-purple color and slowly opening scents of Morello cherries, coffee beans, licorice, thyme, tea leaves and forest floor. The full-bodied palate is powerful yet energetic, offering bursts of juicy acidity and grainy tannins to counter its concentrated fruits. After spending some time in the glass, the long finish blossoms to a kaleidoscope of spicy, floral accents, suggesting this may require more bottle time than some of the other wines in this lineup before reaching its peak. (EB)" (05/2022)

97 points Vinous: "The 2018 Grenache Eleven Confessions Vineyard has tightened considerably since it was bottled. That's probably a good thing for the long-term, but today, the 2018 doesn't show the opulence and richness that is such a signature of this wine. Perhaps the 45 whole clusters are contributing to that. Readers will have to be especially patient. (AG) 97+" (06/2022)

K&L Notes: Jeb Dunnuck's notes on the producer: "I’ve been visiting with Sine Qua Non for a decade now, and I never cease to be amazed at the quality consistently coming from this address. In addition, Krankl somehow manages to deliver brilliance with just about any variety out there, and whether it’s Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre, Touriga Nacional, Roussanne, or even Petit Manseng, you can expect a truly riveting wine, as well as a wine with singular characteristics. Unfortunately, it’s all too common, particularly for those who don’t drink the wines often, to assume all California cult wines are over-ripe or heavy. The reality, however, couldn’t be more different, and great wines deliver intensity and depth while staying light on their feet and elegant. And these latest releases from Sine Qua Non are great wines." (08/2022)

2017 The Third Twin (Sine Qua Non) "Nuestra Señora del Tercer Gemelo" Central Coast Red Blend - 10 available Price: Hidden

99 points Jeb Dunnuck: "The 2017 Nuestra Senora Del Tercer Gemelo sports a ruby/purple color (though not completely opaque), followed by a gorgeous nose of bright cherry, white pepper, black raspberry, white chocolate, and herbes de Provence. With generous notes of smoked meats and game as well as a kiss of iron and iodine, this full-bodied red is just thrilling on the palate, with fine tannins as well as good spine of acidity. Its just a stunning wine wow." (11/2021)

98 points Wine Advocate: "Composed of 42% Grenache, 17% Mourvèdre, 15% Petite Sirah, 12% Graciano, 11.5% Syrah and 2.5% Viognier, employing 18% whole clusters, the 2017 Nuestra Senora Del Tercer Gemelo sports a deep garnet-purple color. It springs from the glass with vibrant red and black cherries, raspberry coulis and pomegranate scents with suggestions of lilacs, crushed rocks and damp soil, giving way to a raw, savory, almost animal underbelly. The full-bodied, generously fruited palate is beautifully juxtaposed by impressive freshness and a firm, grainy texture, finishing with an amazing array of fragrant earth and black truffle-inspired layers. All the hints are there that this could warrant a higher score after a few years in bottle, but as usual, I've been conservative and called it as it is today. Score aside, this is a very exciting, unmistakably singular wine. (LPB) 98+" (08/2020)

94-96 points Vinous: "An explosion of floral and spice notes lifts from the 2017 Nuestra Señora del Tercer Gemelo. Crushed red berries, flowers, mint and cinnamon give the 2017 striking aromatic intensity to match its mid-weight personality. Silky tannins and lifted aromatics add to a feeling of weightlessness in this very pretty, nuanced wine. The blend is 42% Grenache, 17% Mourvèdre, 15% Petite Sirah, 12% Graciano, 11.5% Syrah and 2.5% Viognier, using 18% whole clusters. Aging of around 32 months was done in mostly used oak, with 12% new wood. (AG)" (08/2020)

2017 Sine Qua Non "Eleven Confessions Vineyard" Central Coast Syrah - 9 available ($389.99)

100 points Jeb Dunnuck: "The 2017 Syrah Eleven Confessions Vineyard is the wine of the vintage, and Syrah simply doesnt get any better. Even in these more difficult vintages, Im always amazed at what this estate is able to achieve. Dense purple-hued, with an incredible bouquet of sandalwood, dried flowers, incense, saddle leather, and assorted red and blue fruits, it hits the palate with flawless balance, a deep, full-bodied, concentrated mouthfeel, and a heavenly finish. It shows a more up-front, exuberant, sexy style, yet theres still ample underlying structure and depth. Reminding me of Guigals Côte Rôtie La Mouline (maybe amped up just slightly), drink it over the coming 15-20 years. Its worth pointing out that due to the difficulty in trademarking names today, the longer aged, 100% Eleven Confessions Vineyard Syrah and Grenache will simply bear the name Eleven Confessions Vineyard going forward." (08/2021)

98 points Vinous: "The 2017 Syrah Eleven Confessions Vineyard is a bold, racy wine. Layers of deep, dark fruit build as the 2017 shows off its curves. The purity of the flavors is breathtaking. The 2017 was done with 29% whole clusters and aged in a combination of 59% new oak, 30% concrete and 11% neutral oak. It is a stunning wine in every way. (AG)" (10/2021)

97 points Wine Advocate: "Deep garnet-purple in color, the 2017 Syrah Eleven Confessions bursts with notions of baked plums, stewed blackberries and black cherry preserves, with an undercurrent of Sichuan pepper, violets, chocolate mint and charcuterie, plus a lifted suggestion of black raspberries. Rich, full-bodied and decadently opulent, the palate explodes with pepper-spiked black and red berry preserves, framed by fine-grained tannins and fantastic freshness, finishing epically long and spicy. Very impressive. (LPB) 97+" (08/2021)

2017 Sine Qua Non "Eleven Confessions Vineyard" Central Coast Grenache - 10 available ($379.99)

99 points Jeb Dunnuck: "The 2017 Grenache Eleven Confessions Vineyard, which will be the name going forward for this wine sourced exclusively from the Eleven Confessions Vineyard in the Sta. Rita Hills, reveals a gorgeous perfume of assorted red and blue fruits as well as iron, ground pepper, Asian spices, and herbes de Provence. Based on 88.7% Grenache, 10.6% Syrah, and the rest Viognier, this full-bodied, ultra-fine, deep, layered Grenache is just about as good as it gets. Drink it any time over the coming 10-15 years. Its worth pointing out that due to the difficulty in trademarking names today, the longer aged, 100% Eleven Confessions Vineyard Syrah and Grenache will simply bear the name Eleven Confessions Vineyard going forward." (08/2021)

98 points Wine Advocate: "Medium to deep garnet-purple in color, the nose starts off a little closed, offering glimpses at stewed plums, blackberry preserves, and chocolate-covered cherries, giving way to fragrant notions of licorice, violets and cinnamon stick. While theres no question that this is a big, concentrated, full-bodied wine, it is also incredibly elegant, well-poised and nuanced, featuring many floral and baking spice layers within the decadent black fruits and sporting firm, very finely grained tannins, finishing with incredible length and depth. I would recommend a good 3-5 years of cellaring, then drink it over the next 20 years+. (LPB) 98+" (08/2021)

97 points Vinous: "The 2017 Grenache Eleven Confessions Vineyard is shockingly tight and unyielding today. That should not pose an issue in a few years' time, once the tannins soften, but readers should plan on cellaring the 2017 for at least a few years. Bright floral accents and red-toned fruit all run through this backward yet vibrant Grenache from Manfred and Elaine Krankl's Eleven Confessions Vineyard, so named because of the eleven clones planted in the vineyard. Dollops of Syrah and Viognier round out the blend.ps of Syrah and Viognier round out the blend. (AG) 97+" (06/2021)

2011 Sine Qua Non "Patine - Eleven Confessions Vineyard" Sta. Rita Hills Grenache - 3 available ($349.99)

97 points Wine Advocate: "Coming all from Manfred's Eleven Confessions Vineyard in the Sta. Rita Hills and a blend of 77% Grenache, 22% Syrah and 1% Viognier (fermented with 25% whole clusters), the 2011 Grenache Patine spent a full 33 months in almost all neutral oak, with just 11% being new. It offers perfumed and spice-laced notes of white pepper, black raspberry, blackberry and ground herbs that flow to a full-bodied, elegant, nicely concentrated 2011 that has nicely integrated acidity, no hard edges and a terrific finish. It's certainly one of the fresher, more elegant Grenaches from Manfred, yet it still has rocking levels of fruit. (JD)" (08/2015)

97 points Vinous: "The 2011 Grenache Patine has turned out beautifully. Dark red cherry, plum, mocha, spice and leather meld together in the glass as this savory, beautifully layered wine opens up. Herb, graphite, smoke, sage and tobacco add shades of nuance in a delineated Grenache that captures the best of this cool, late-ripening year. (AG)" (08/2015)

2010 Sine Qua Non "Five Shooter" Central Coast Syrah - 4 available ($349.99)

98 points Wine Advocate: "The 2010 Syrah Five Shooter is straight up gorgeous. A massive wine that somehow holds everything together, it offers a wild array of cassis, blackberry, white chocolate, underbrush and pepper that flows to a full-bodied, layered Syrah that has masses of fine tannin and enough substance to evolve for decades. A blend of 85% Syrah, 5% Grenache, 3% Petite Sirah, 5% Roussanne and 2% Viognier that was fermented with 20% whole cluster and aged 22 months in 59% new French oak, it opens up beautifully in the glass and should be decanted if drinking anytime soon. (JD) 98+" (08/2013)

98 points Vinous: "I have tasted the 2010 Syrah Five Shooter on numerous occasions, and it has never been anything less than stellar. A stunning, expressive bouquet melds into layers of dark fruit, black pepper, sage, menthol, minerals and spices, all supported by intense graphite and melted road tar undertones. The wine seems to gain intensity with time in the glass, leading to a huge, explosive, saline-infused finish. The 2010 Syrah Five Shooter is a stunner from Sine Qua Non. The blend is 85% Syrah, 5% Grenache, 5% Roussanne, 3% Petite Sirah and 2% Viognier, with a total of 20% whole clusters, that spent 22 months in French oak barrels, about 59% new. (AG)" (07/2013)

K&L Notes: 94 points, Josh Raynolds - Vinous: "Vivid purple. Pungent aromas of cherry, black raspberry and violet, along with spice and floral overtones. Bright and energetic on the palate, displaying cherry-cola and dark berry flavors and energizing spiciness. Dusty, fine-grained tannins add support to the very sweet, persistent, well-focused finish. Shows a very suave blend of richness and vivacity, which Krankl attributes to the Roussanne component in the blend." (11/2012)

2009 Sine Qua Non "Upside Down" California Grenache - 3 available ($299.99)

96 points Wine Advocate: "The 2009 Grenache Upside Down emerges from the glass with layers of dark red fruit as it sweeps across the palate. There is an inner sweetness and sheer depth that make the 2009 compelling. The 11% Syrah and 5% Mourvedre make themselves heard clearly in adding layers of depth and pure richness. Tar, anise and graphite meld together on the rich, dramatic finish. This is a striking wine endowed with tons of pure textural dimension. (AG) 96+" (04/2012)

95 points Vinous: "Bright purple. Highly complex aromas of black raspberry, cherry pit, licorice and black pepper, complemented by more exotic hints of apricot and white flowers. Suave and juicy on entry, then alluringly sweet and vibrant in the mid-palate, with vivid red and dark fruit compote, lavender and Indian spice flavors. Finishes very long, with terrific energy and clinging spiciness. (JR)" (11/2011)

Jancis Robinson: "Deep garnet. Sweeter, brighter and more red fruited than the Thrill Syrah but still a very very slight savoury edge. Intensely fragrant with sweet black and red cherries. Finest of tannins and relatively structured and upright. Surprising finesse given the alcohol. And some freshness. When the glass is nearly empty, there's a scent of ginger. (JH)" (10/2012)

2009 Sine Qua Non "This Is Not An Exit" Sta. Rita Hills Syrah - 4 available ($369.99)

97 points Wine Advocate: "An extended barrel-aged release, the 2009 Syrah This Is Not An Exit is 100% from the Santa Rita Hills Eleven Confessions Vineyard and checks in as a blend of 80% Syrah, 12% Grenache, 7% Roussanne and 1% Viognier that saw 41.5 months in 65% new French oak. Slightly exotic, with notions of kirsch, flower oil, smoked meats, licorice and graphite, it hits the palate with full-bodied richness and depth, loads of fruit and a blockbuster finish. (JD)" (08/2013)

95 points Vinous: "Opaque purple. Intensely perfumed scents of black raspberry, cherry preserves, potpourri and smoky minerals. Brisk, tightly wound dark berry and floral pastille flavors are underscored by intense minerality and show excellent clarity. Closes smooth, sweet and very long, with slow-building tannins and lingering florality. (JR)" (11/2013)

95 points Wine Spectator: "Offers exciting aromas of black licorice, ground coffee, anise, mocha and dark berry that are explosive on the palate. Deep, dense and persistent, with gripping tannins that give the flavors traction. (JL)" (03/2014)

K&L Notes: 94+ points, Antonio Galloni - Vinous: "The 2009 Syrah This is Not an Exit seems to still be showing some of the effects of its recent bottling, about a month and a half before this tasting. Like the 2009 Grenache This is Not an Exit, the Syrah is rich, powerful and voluptuous. Chocolate, mocha, black cherries and menthol are followed by hints of pomegranate, orange rind and spices, all of which add an exotic flair. Right now, I have a preference for the 2010s and the 2011s at Sine Qua Non, but I have seen these wines develop beautifully in bottle, so we will see. The blend is 80% Syrah, 12% Grenache, 7% Roussanne and 1% Viognier (with 22% whole clusters), all from Eleven Confessions." (7/2013)

2009 Sine Qua Non "The Thrill of Stamp Collecting" California Syrah - 3 available ($329.99)

95 points Wine Advocate: "The 2009 Syrah The Thrill Of... impresses for its poise and underlying energy. Dark fruit, spices, licorice and violets sit on a core of firm tannin as this powerful wine opens up in the glass. Today, The Thrill Of comes across as very, very young. The intensity of the fruit and the oak are dominant at present. In another few years the wine should be spectacular. The Thrill Of is 90% Syrah, 6% Grenache and 4% Viognier, all destemmed and mostly from estate owned vineyards. (AG)" (08/2012)

95 points Vinous: "A wild, heady bouquet evokes candied black and blue fruits, smoky Indian spices and cola. Lush, palate-staining dark fruit flavors show a suave blend of richness and vivacity, picking up floral pastille and licorice nuances with air. Shows superb energy on the finish, which features chewy tannins and a sexy violet pastille quality. (JR)" (11/2012)

Jancis Robinson: "Intense dark fruit, with dark notes of tar and smoke and leather and garrigue, violets. Fabulous nose. Can't remember when I have ever found so many aromas in a wine, especially not a wine as young as this. Rich, deep velvet texture. Intense and ripe but not at all raisined. Plenty of oak sweetness and spice but all beautifully integrated and not too hot despite the alcohol, though I would be having trouble if I were drinking not spitting. Full and chewy but highly polished. Still seems young. Fabulous aromas in the empty glass. 17.5/20 points (JH)" (10/2012)

K&L Notes: Sine Qua Non's 2009 vintage notes from Jeb Dunnuck in Wine Advocate: "About as good as it gets across the board, these singular, incredible wines are the result of an obsessive attention to detail at all stages of the wine making process. There is no secret or hidden magic going on here. The incredibly talented and down-to-earth Manfred Krankl simply walks the walk as opposed to only talking about attention to detail or offering up the standard, wine is made in the vineyard comments. Looking at the vintages focused on here, 2009 has produced a decadent, voluptuous style that offers up thrilling levels of fruit as well as an approachable, heady richness that's hard to resist." (08/2013)

2009 Sine Qua Non "On the Lam" White Blend - 3 available ($239.99)

94 points Int'l Wine Cellar: "Vivid gold. Intense, floral-accented scents of orange zest, pit fruit and candied ginger. Powerful and broad but surprisingly energetic, offering sappy, palate-staining citrus marmalade and peach flavors lifted by tangy acidity. A suave honey note comes up with air and carries through the long, spicy finish. (JR)" (11/2011)

93 points Wine Advocate: "The 2009 On the Lam is a blend of 48% Roussanne, 34% Chardonnay and 18% Viognier from the Eleven Confessions and Bien Nacido vineyards. Tangerine peel, white peaches, mango, lychee and passion fruit are some of the nuances that emerge from this beautifully layered white. Weekly lees stirring gives the wine much of its depth. (AG)" (08/2011)

2007 Sine Qua Non "Labels" California Syrah - 3 available ($299.99)

98 points Wine Advocate: "The recently released 2007 Syrah Labels (89% Syrah, 7% Grenache, and 4% Viognier) comes from the 11 Confessions Estate Vineyard (57%), a small amount from the home estate vineyard in Oak View called Cumulus, and the rest from purchased fruit grown in the White Hawk Vineyard in Los Alamos and the Bien Nacido Vineyard in Santa Maria. A sensational effort, it is performing even better out of bottle than it did from barrel. An opaque purple color is accompanied by beautiful notes of charcoal, acacia flowers, blueberries, blackberries, graphite, and subtle smoke. With great fruit, tremendous texture, and full-bodied power, it is locked and loaded. (RP) 98+" (08/2010)

94 points Vinous: "Opaque purple. Sexy, expansive aromas of blackberry, kirsch, potpourri, sandalwood and black pepper. Sweet and rich, but juicy, with superb floral lift to the flavors of bitter cherry, dark berries and fruity pepper. A real essence of syrah: this is all dark berries, flowers and spice, but no game, with plenty of fruit to support the oak (64% new) element. Harmonious, ripe acidity and velvety tannins give shape to a long, sweet finish. (JR)" (11/2010)

92 points Wine Spectator: "Fresh, intense, firm and vibrant, with a touch of suppleness midpalate, focused on spice, pepper, sour blackberry and wild berry, holding its focus and ending with drying tannins. (JL)" (06/2010)

K&L Notes: High praise from Robert Parker, who said in 2010 that "Krankl's fame rests on the strength of his wines - compelling, singular, and world-class wines that are like no others being produced on Planet Earth."