2022 Sine Qua Non "Distenta IV" California Grenache

The 2022 Grenache Distenta IV comes from three estate vineyards: 35.3% Eleven Confessions, 35.3% The Third Twin, and 29.4% Cumulus Estate. 78% Grenache is blended with 10% Syrah, 7.3% Mourvèdre, 3% Petite Sirah, plus dashes of Muscat and Petit Manseng. The fermentation was performed with 42.9% whole cluster, mainly Grenache. It was aged 23 months in French oak, mostly larger demi-muids, 16.1% new. Deep garnet-purple colored, the nose bursts with a bold perfume of blackberry preserves, juicy blueberries, and black cherries, followed by suggestions of licorice, black pepper, garigue, and dried lavender. The full-bodied palate delivers beautifully ripe yet firm, fine-grained tannins and great tension to support the boisterous fruit layers, finishing very long and fragrant. Give it 3-4 years to tame the fruit and drink it over the next 15-20 years. (LPB)

The 2022 Grenache Distenta IV is based on 78% Grenache, 10% Syrah, 7.3% Mourvèdre, and the rest Petite Sirah and white varieties. Vinified with 43% whole clusters and aged 23 months in 16% new French oak, it’s gorgeous stuff that, while showing the ripe side of the vintage, stays light on its feet, elegant, and incredibly seamless. Aromas of black raspberries, Herbes de Provence, sandalwood, and assorted spices all emerge on the nose, and it hits the palate with medium to full-bodied richness, a pure, layered mouthfeel, sweet yet present tannins, and a great finish.