2013 Sine Qua Non, Female, California 1x750ml

Robert Parker 98

Manfred’s 2013 Grenache Female checks in as a blend of 78% Grenache, 19% Syrah and 3% Mourvedre that is mostly from his Eleven Confessions estate vineyard in Sta. Rita Hills, yet has smaller portions from his Cumulus, The Third Twin and Bien Nacido vineyards. Seeing just over 24 months in a mix of demi-muids, 300-liter Hog Heads and barrique, it has a sensational bouquet of spring flowers, black raspberries, black cherries, violets, licorice and camphor. Reminding me of a great vintage of Raymond Usseglio’s Cuvee Imperiale, this full-bodied, elegant Grenache is impeccably balanced, has a full and layered mid-palate (which is missing from just about every other Grenache made in California), and sweet tannin on the finish. It’s almost impervious to air and didn’t budge an inch over the three days I followed this bottle. It will cruise for over two decades. [Jeb Dunnuck, 28/09/2017]

Anticipated maturity: 2016-2033

Vinous 96+

Huge tannins wrap around a core of voluptuous fruit in the 2013 Grenache Female. Dark-fleshed fruit, graphite, spices, savory herbs and lavender are some of the signatures. Today, the 2013 is quite imposing and shut down, so readers will have to be patient. The blend is 78% Grenache, 19% Syrah and 3% Mourvedre, done with 88% whole clusters, which is high for Sine Qua Non. [Antonio Galloni, 09/01/2016]

Anticipated maturity: 2017-2028