Region and Vineyards
The 2020 Distenta II Grenache is sourced entirely from Sine Qua Non's estate vineyards: Eleven Confessions (40%), Cumulus (33%), The Third Twin (21%), and Molly Aïda (6%). These vineyards are located in California's Central Coast, an area renowned for its diverse microclimates and soil compositions, which contribute to the complexity and character of the wines produced.
The region's Mediterranean climate, with its warm days and cool nights, allows for extended ripening periods, enhancing flavor development while preserving acidity. The varied topography and soil types across the vineyards provide a rich palette for viticulture, enabling the cultivation of grapes with distinct profiles that, when blended, result in a wine of remarkable depth and balance.
Winemaking
The 2020 Distenta II Grenache is a blend of 77.9% Grenache, 9.4% Mourvèdre, 7.9% Syrah, 4.3% Petite Sirah, and 0.5% Viognier. Approximately 29% of the grapes were fermented with whole clusters, a technique that adds complexity and structure to the wine. The fermentation process was carefully managed to extract optimal color, flavor, and tannin profiles.
Following fermentation, the wine was aged for about 23 months in French oak barrels, 52% of which were new. This aging regimen imparts subtle oak nuances and allows the wine to develop its full potential. The result is a full-bodied, concentrated wine that balances ripe fruit flavors with refined tannins and a persistent finish.
Tasting Notes
- Color: Deep purple-black with a nearly opaque core.
- Aroma: Aromas of blackberry pie, black cherry cordial, molten licorice, dark chocolate, and candied violets, with hints of Sichuan pepper and beef drippings.
- Palate: Full-bodied and concentrated, featuring layers of red and black fruits, plush tannins, and a lively backbone that lifts the floral-sparked layers to an epically long, perfumed finish.
Did you know?
The name "Distenta" is derived from Latin, meaning "unlabeled." Sine Qua Non adopted this naming convention as a response to the complexities of trademark and copyright issues, allowing them to continue their tradition of unique wine identities without legal constraints. The 2020 Distenta II Grenache received high acclaim, with a score of 97–99 points from Wine Advocate, highlighting its exceptional quality and the winery's innovative approach to winemaking.
Wine Pairing Ideas
- Grilled lamb chops with rosemary and garlic: The wine's robust structure complements the rich flavors of the lamb.
- Duck breast with berry reduction: The fruity notes in the wine enhance the savory-sweet profile of the dish.
- Wild mushroom risotto: The earthy flavors of the mushrooms pair well with the wine's depth and complexity.
- Aged Gouda cheese: The cheese's nutty character harmonizes with the wine's rich fruit and spice notes.
