Grenache Profuga 2018 Sine Qua Non

Professional reviews

Robert Parker (98)

The 2018 Grenache Profuga is composed of 77.5% Grenache, 10% Mourvedre, 8.3% Syrah, 3.3% Petite Sirah and 0.9% Viognier. The vineyard sources are 38% Cumulus Estate, 35% The Third Twin Estate, 23% Eleven Confessions Estate and 4% Bien Nacido vineyard. Forty-one percent whole cluster was performed, predominately on the Grenache. The small proportion of Viognier was co-fermented with red grapes, but interestingly, because it ripens earlier, the white berries are frozen and added to the reds at the time of fermentation. As an added bonus, these frozen grapes help to cool and, therefore, slow the fermentation. The wine was aged for around 23 months in 37% new French oak, 57.8% used oak and 5.2% concrete. It was bottled on July 29, 2020.

Medium to deep garnet-purple colored, the nose is a mélange of fresh black cherries, boysenberries, red roses and raspberry leaves with hints of cracked pepper, dusty earth, bay leaves and aniseed. The concentrated, full-bodied palate possesses the most gorgeous silken texture, nonetheless delivering a solid backbone including a lively line of freshness, finishing with epic length and lots of spicy fireworks.

1387 cases plus 600 magnums were made.