The Physical Graffiti SQN Duo 195+ Points

2021 Distenta III Grenache

"The 2021 Grenache Distenta III shows the cooler, more elegant style of the vintage, yet it's still 100% Sine Qua Non goodness with its richness and concentration. Beautiful black raspberries, ground pepper, sandalwood, and sappy flower notes are just some of the nuances in this beauty, and it hits the palate with full-bodied richness, a pure, layered, seamless mouthfeel, beautifully polished tannins, and a great, great finish. Give it 2-3 years and enjoy over the following 15+. The 2021 is 79% Grenache, 8.4% Syrah, 7.4% Mourvedre, and the rest Petite Sirah and white varieties, fermented with 35% whole clusters, all aged 23 months in just 42% new barrels." 98 Jeb Dunnuck

2021 Distenta III Syrah

"A great example of the cooler style of the vintage, the 2021 Syrah Distenta III has quintessential Syrah notes of ripe darker berry fruits, ground pepper, violets, and assorted smoky, meaty, subtly bloody-like nuances. With medium to full-bodied richness, flawless overall balance, and ultra-fine tannins, it picks up a beautiful floral character with time in the glass and reminds me of a great vintage of Guigal's Côte Rôtie La Mouline. Give bottles 4-5 years if you can, count yourself lucky, and enjoy over the following 15-20 years. The 2021 is 82% Syrah and 11% Grenache, with the balance Mourvèdre, Petite Sirah, and white varieties. It was fermented with 21% while clusters and spent 23 months in 53% new French oak." 97+ Jeb Dunnuck