2006 Sine Qua Non Syrah Raven No 5
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Tasting notes
Full bottle all of 1,465 g. On Manfred Krankl's front label: The Raven says, 'I am dark but lovely ... because the sun has tanned me'. Actually, it’s not as dark as St Henri Shiraz 2022! Very dark blackish ruby with a fox-red rim. Rich and sweet. Full mature. Quite earthy but recognisable ripe Syrah. Hedonistic but at peak, if not just past it. Note of liquorice. Lots pleasure if you can live with the alcohol. (JR)
Critic scores
Robert Parker
Jancis Robinson MW
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A brilliant Syrah, the 2006 Sine Qua Non Syrah Raven Series benefits greatly from a decant and boast awesome aromatics of smoked meats, bacon fat, sage, and pepper that are balanced by a deep, pure core of black berry and raspberry fruit. Full-bodied on the palate, with a substantial, yet seamless, elegant texture, gorgeous integration, and no shortage of length on the finish, this youthful red showed even better on the second day where it gained a ever so slight northern Rhone similarity. This beauty should continue to drink fantastically for another 12-15 years.
(includes 5% grenache and 2% viognier) Opaque purple. Succulent, mineral-driven dark berry and kirsch, with strong graphite, iron and black olive notes arriving with air. Vibrant mineral qualities add urgency to deep, sweet black and blue fruit flavors and lend an incisive character to the long, spicy finish. Picked up silky tannins with air but not at the expense of the suave fruit.
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.