2002 Sine Qua Non Whisperin' E
Market price
Buying options
Tasting notes
(a blend of 50% roussanne, 31% viognier and 19% chardonnay; 14. 9% alcohol) Pale-medium gold. Roasted, oaky aromas of peaty Islay scotch and smoke, with a strong mineral component. In the mouth, this offers a fascinating combination of a firm pear skin edge and lively acids on the one hand and superripe flavors of pineapple, peach nectar and honeysuckle on the other. The flavors suggest thickness but the wine's phenolic edge keeps it brisk. Finishes very subtle, pliant and long, with excellent lift. A captivating, suave California white wine. I'd be more enthusiastic about Northern Rhone whites if they had the fruit of this one.
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
The 2002 Proprietary White called Whisperin’ E is a concoction of 50% Roussanne, 31% Viognier, and 19% Chardonnay, most from the Alban Vineyard with a tiny dollop of Stolpman fruit. There are 524 cases of this light gold-colored 2002. A superb perfume of smoky hazelnuts intermixed with exotic lychee, honeysuckle, peach, and beeswax notes is followed by a full-bodied wine with a multilayered texture that pulls back in the finish to reveal surprising uplift, acidity, and lightness ... an amazing feat given a wine of this power, dimension, and intensity. It should drink well for another 5-7 years. (Release date 11/04) Tel. (805) 649-8901
About the producer
The brainchild of Manfred Krankl, Sine Qua Non (commonly known as SQN) is a cult California producer whose wines are avidly collected. The winery focuses on Rhône-inspired blends, however is famously non-conformist with each release totally unique.