2021 Distenta 1 Magnum Case (1 Syrah, 1 Grenache)

Based around the Eleven Confessions Vineyard with inclusions from The Third Twin and Cumulus, the 2021 Grenache Distenta III includes 8.4% Syrah, 7.4% Mourvèdre, and 3.2% Petite Sirah with dollops of Petit Manseng and Muscat. The nose here is on the focused and precise side of the roster, driven by vibrant but ripe, extravagant red fruits and aromas of fennel, black pepper and underbrush with touches of alcoholic heat. The palate echoes this relative elegance with a rich yet energetic texture that leads to an herbal, initially latent and reticent finish that expands with further aeration. Again, as found throughout this roster, the wines are undeniably impressive and even admirable in their singular nature. Still, it is impossible to ignore the wine's intrusive alcoholic payload and how this affects its overall balance.

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.

The 2021 Grenache Distenta III is one of the most refined wines I have tasted from Sine Qua Non. Floral aromatics make a strong first impression. There's plenty of SQN richness, but also less overt opulence than most vintages. I tasted this from a tank sample just prior to bottling. The 2021 is simply magnificent. I can't wait to taste it from bottle.