2018 Sine Qua Non, Profuga Grenache, Central Coast - Magnum

Manfred Krankl’s Sine Qua Non approaches Grenache cultivation with a meticulous, "essentially organic" philosophy across its diverse estate vineyards, including Cumulus in the cooler Santa Rita Hills and warmer sites like Oak View, aiming for wines that are both expressive and balanced. The 2018 Profuga, a blend predominantly of Grenache with Mourvèdre, Syrah, Petite Sirah, and co-fermented Viognier, draws from these distinct microclimates and soils to achieve complexity. Winemaking involved 41% whole cluster fermentation, predominantly Grenache, and a 23-month aging regimen in 37% new French oak, 57.8% used oak, and 5.2% concrete, with wines typically bottled unfined and unfiltered. The 2018 Central Coast vintage, marked by a calm growing season and cooler spring, contributed to a wine displaying notable purity, focus, and precision. This magnum presents a medium to full-bodied Grenache with tightly knit, finely-grained tannins, and a fresh, elegant structure underpinned by sustained acidity.