Sine Qua Non Distenta Grenache 2019

Not yet bottled, the 2019 Grenache Ditenta 1 (which is the new name for the classic Grenache of the estate and means "unlabeled" in Latin) sports a dense purple hue as well as a flamboyant, exotic, complex nose of black raspberries, flowery incense, pepper, and spice. It's incredibly layered and elegant, yet still has classic Sine Qua Non opulence and texture. It's a brilliant Grenache in the making.

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. 1,536 cases plus 600 magnums were made. Due to be released in spring 2022.

Tasted from barrel, the 2019 Grenache Détente is magnificent. Rich, explosive and full of energy, the 2019 possesses tremendous aromatic intensity and remarkable presence. The 2019 is vibrant, fresh and full of life. The 43% whole clusters lend captivating aromatic intensity. Dollops of Syrah, Mourvèdre, Petite Sirah and Viognier round out the blend.