Sine Qua Non Syrah 2021 Distenta III

- 98-100 Punkte Parkers WINE ADVOCATE, Erin Brooks: „I tasted the 2021 Syrah Distenta III as a precise blend from barrel on July 6—it's due to be bottled in August. It comes from three estate vineyards: The Third Twin (51%), Cumulus (26%) and 23% Eleven Confessions (23%). The Syrah is blended with 11.3% Grenache, 3.3% Mourvèdre, 2.1% Petite Sirah, 0.9% Petit Manseng and 0.7% Muscat and was vinified using 21% whole clusters. It matured around 23 months in 53% new French oak, 43% one- to three-year-old barrels and 4% concrete. Opaque ruby-purple in the glass, the Distenta III's aromatic complexity requires plenty of patience, as a singular truffle, earth and coffee bean character gives way to electric streaks of crème de violette, blueberry liqueur and peppermint patty. The palate is medium to full-bodied and exceptionally light on its feet. It glides silkily through the mouth with fireworks of freshness, and its floral fruit is tempered by graphite tones. Around 1,880 cases and 600 magnums are projected to be released in January of 2024.“

- 97-99 Punkte, JEB DUNNUCK: „Scheduled to be bottled in August, the 2021 Syrah Distenta III looks to be another insanely good Syrah from Krankl. Checking in as 82% Syrah, 11% Grenache, and the rest Mourvèdre, Petite Sirah, and a smattering of white varieties, its deep purple hue is followed by classic, cool climate Syrah notes of smoked black fruits, iron, black olives, and meaty, peppery nuances. With incredibly purity, full-bodied richness, and perfectly integrated tannins and acidity, it will have 15-20 years of prime drinking. It's an absolutely magical Syrah in the making.“
Looking at the new vintages reviewed here, the 2021s come from a cooler, even, balanced year and actually share a similar profile with the 2019s. These are still classic Sine Qua Non releases, but there’s clearly a fresher, elegant vibe, and the wines are flawlessly balanced. In comparison, the 2020s come across as bigger, richer wines that have tons of sexy opulence and richness. I was able to taste the two longer élevage Eleven Confession Vineyard releases from 2019, and these are absolutely captivating wines I wish every reader could taste. As I said above, there are lots of similarities to the 2021s here, and the wines have a beautiful purity and elegance about them without sacrificing depth or richness.