2008 Sine Qua Non The
Duel Grenache
Critical Acclaim
"Sine Qua Non’s
2008 Grenache Estate The Duel boasts extraordinary richness, power and sheer
depth. Tobacco, leather, mint and spices are woven together in this
large-scaled Grenache. There is plenty of intensity here, but the 2008 has just
a touch less aromatic definition than the very finest wines at Sine Qua Non. I
imagine some of that may be the result of extended aging in oak. The 2008 is
82% Grenache, 14% Syrah, 2% Viognier and 1% Roussanne, all from the Eleven
Confessions Vineyard in Santa Rita Hills. A portion of the Grenache was
fermented using whole clusters. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2023. " – 97 Antonio Galloni, Wine Advocate
"Glass-staining
purple. Deeply pitched black and blue fruit aromas are complemented by mocha,
potpourri and musky herbs. Very rich but lively as well, with intense dark
berry compote, cherry-cola and spicecake flavors that show no rough edges. A
sexy note of candied flowers comes up with air and carries through an extremely
long, sappy, spice-accented finish." - 97 Stephen Tanzer’s International
Wine Cellar