SINE QUA NON Rattrapante Estate Grenache 'Eleven Confessions Vineyard' Sta. Rita Hills, Santa Barbara County 2012 Bottle

Description

IN BRIEF
The 2012 Sine Qua Non Grenache Rattrapante is a distinguished offering from one of California's most celebrated cult wineries, crafted by Manfred and Elaine Krankl. This blend comprises 84% Grenache, 13% Syrah, and 3% Petite Sirah, aged for 33 months in French oak barrels, with 27% being new oak. It has received outstanding scores, including 100 points from The Wine Advocate and 97 points from VinoUS, featuring notes of black raspberries, liquorice, and cherry jam. In the glass, it presents a deep hue and captivating aromas of ripe red fruits and spice. On the palate, it reveals a velvety texture with layered flavours of dark berry, pomegranate, and warm spices, culminating in a long, satisfying finish that showcases meticulous craftsmanship.

ABOUT THIS WINE
The 2012 Sine Qua Non Grenache Rattrapante is a distinguished offering from one of California's most celebrated cult wineries, created by the talented duo Manfred and Elaine Krankl. Since its inception in 1994, Sine Qua Non has garnered acclaim for its highly limited production of wines crafted from classic Rhône Valley varietals, capturing the essence of the terroir and the winemaker's artistry.

This particular blend consists of 84% Grenache, 13% Syrah, and 3% Petite Sirah, showcasing the versatility and richness of these grapes. Aged for an impressive 33 months in French oak barrels, with 27% of that being new oak, the Rattrapante exhibits a sophisticated balance of oak influence and fruit character, resulting in a beautifully integrated wine.

In the glass, the wine presents a deep, vibrant hue that hints at its concentration and complexity. The aromas are captivating, leading with inviting notes of ripe red fruits, including cherries and raspberries, intertwined with hints of spice and floral undertones. The oak aging contributes layers of vanilla and subtle smoke, enhancing the overall aromatic profile.

On the palate, the 2012 Rattrapante Grenache reveals a full-bodied and velvety texture, with ripe fruit flavours harmoniously balancing the wine's natural acidity. The integration of Syrah and Petite Sirah adds depth and structure, providing a rich mouthfeel and complexity. Flavours of dark berry, pomegranate, and warm spices emerge, culminating in a satisfying experience that lingers on the finish.

This wine is a perfect example of the meticulous attention to detail that Sine Qua Non is known for, reflecting the unique characteristics of its varietals while capturing the spirit of the California Rhône movement. Whether enjoyed now or allowed to age further in the cellar, the 2012 Sine Qua Non Grenache Rattrapante promises an exceptional tasting experience for those fortunate enough to savour it.

THE WINE ADVOCATE 100 points
Reviewed by: Jeb Dunnuck
Drink Date: 2018 - 2032
A perfect wine any way you look at it, the 2012 Grenache Rattrapante comes all from the Eleven Confessions Vineyard in the Sta. Rita Hills and spent 33 months in 27% new French oak. My notes start - and end - with “Wow.” Giving up tons of black raspberries, peppery herbs, licorice, dried flowers and cured meats, it’s a massively concentrated, rich and layered Grenache that somehow manages to stay graceful, lively and fresh on the palate. There are roughly 800 cases of this elixir and any Grenache lover should do their best to latch onto a bottle (or two). It’s also worth noting that this cuvee saw 26% whole clusters, which is a small change from past vintages.

VINOUS 97 points
The 2012 Grenache Rattrapante, from Eleven Confessions, is deep, powerful and voluptuous, with a striking interplay of fruit, structure and overall intensity. Thus is another wine that is going to need time to fully come together. Hints of smoke, licorice, new leather, cherry jam and pomegranate meld into the huge, creamy finish. Dollops of Syrah and Petite Sirah round out the blend. The 2012 was done with about 26% whole clusters and aged for 33 months in French oak, around 27% new.
Antonio Galloni. Tasting date: June 2016

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ABOUT SINE QUA NON
Sine Qua Non (SQN) is a highly esteemed winery located in the Santa Barbara County, California, specifically in the innovative and dynamic wine region of the Central Coast. Founded in 1994 by winemakers Manfred Krankl and Elaine Krankl, Sine Qua Non is renowned for its artisanal approach to winemaking and its focus on producing small quantities of exceptional Rhône-style wines.

The name "Sine Qua Non," which translates to "without which, nothing," reflects the winery’s philosophy and commitment to quality. Sine Qua Non is particularly celebrated for its distinctive blends, which showcase a range of grape varieties, including Syrah, Grenache, and Viognier, among others. The winery’s offerings are known for their complexity, depth, and unique expressions, often resulting from meticulous vineyard management and innovative fermentation techniques.

Sine Qua Non adopts a minimal intervention approach in the winery, allowing the natural character of the grapes and the terroir to shine through in each bottling. The wines are crafted with a vision of balance and artistry, garnering acclaim from critics and wine enthusiasts alike. The limited production and distinctive label designs have created a fervent following, with many of their releases selling out quickly.

In addition to its red blends, Sine Qua Non produces a range of white wines, offering a unique perspective on Rhône varietals in California. The wines typically exhibit bold fruit flavours, vibrant acidity, and the ability to age gracefully, making them highly sought after in the fine wine market.

Due to its exclusivity, unique expression, and the passion behind each bottle, Sine Qua Non has established itself as a cult winery, earning a revered status among collectors and connoisseurs. The Krankls’ unwavering dedication to craftsmanship and innovation continues to push the boundaries of winemaking, solidifying Sine Qua Non’s reputation as one of the standout producers in the world of fine wine.