2021 Sine Qua Non, SQN, Cumulus Vineyard, Next of Kyn, Central Coast, California, Bottle (750ml)

JD100 "Red and blue fruits, ground pepper, sandalwood, new leather, and who knows what else emerges from 2021 No 15 Cumulus Vineyard, another absolutely sensational effort from this genius of a winemaker. Based on 40% Grenache, 34% Syrah, 22% Petite Sirah, and the balance white varieties, it's full-bodied, has a deep, layered mouthfeel, ultra-fine tannins, and not a hard edge to be found. It picks up more floral nuances with time in the glass and has a rare mix of richness, elegance, and purity. These 2021s from Krankl are clearly on another level. Give this just 2-4 years if you can, and enjoy bottles over the following 15-20 years.The Next of Kyn releases come from Sine Qua Non’s Manfred and Elaine Krankl and focus on their Cumulus Vineyard located just outside of Oak View, not far from Ojai, planted around their house and winery. Planted in 2004 (and 2008) to Syrah, Grenache, and Roussanne, as well as small amounts of Touriga Nacional, Mourvedre, Petite Sirah, and even Petite Manseng, it’s the warmest terroir they work with and is the first vineyard under the Krankl umbrella to be harvested. There are two wines under this label: the classic Rhone Blend that gets a release number (i.e., No 15 Cumulus Vineyard) and a tiny production Touriga Nacional." JD Aug 2024

AG99 "The 2021 No. 15 Cumulus Vineyard is a total stunner. It's also a pretty radical departure from most years in that Grenache drives the blend. That comes through in the wine's captivating aromatics and gorgeous, layered fruit. Crushed rose petal, red cherry, plum, mint, mocha and dried herbs infuse the palate with notable depth. The 2021 is flat-out stunning—that’s all there is to it. The blend is 40% Grenache, 34% Syrah, 22% Petite Sirah and 4% Petit Manseng. There's a touch of stem inclusion (7%), but not much." AG for VM Aug 2024

LP97+ "Next of Kyn’s 2021 No15 is a blend of 40% Grenache, 34% Syrah, 22% Petite Sirah, and 4% Petit Manseng, all sourced from the Krankls’ Cumulus Vineyard in Oak View, just south of Santa Barbara. It was aged for 30 months in French oak barrels, 53% new. Opaque purple-black colored, it’s a little broody to start off, needing a lot of swirling to bring out expressive notes of black olives, dried Provence herbs, and fertile loam, leading to a core of plum preserves, baked blackberries, and cracked black pepper. Full-bodied, the palate is beautifully restrained with fine-grained, silky tannins and well-knit freshness, finishing long and savory. 361 cases and 222 magnums were made." LPB for TWI Sep 2024