2017 Sine Qua Non, SQN, Cumulus Vineyard, Next of Kyn, Touriga Nacional, Central Coast, California, Bottle (750ml)

RP98+ "This cuvée comes entirely from the Krankl’s “home” vineyard—the Cumulus vineyard—from a small, one-acre 2008 planting. The 2017 Touriga Nacional Numero Tres is a blend of 80% Touriga Nacional, 8% Petite Sirah, 6% Syrah and 6% Grenache using 44% whole clusters. It spent around 33 months in French oak barrels, 60% new." LPB for TWA Aug 2020

JD98 "The third time the Krankls have released a Touriga Nacional-dominated release, I'd say the 2017 Touriga Nacional Numero Tres is the finest yet. If you'd told me this variety could produce a wine of this quality a decade ago, I'd have thought you were crazy, but the proof is in the pudding, as they say. Based on a blend of 80% Touriga Nacional, 8% Petite Sirah, 6% Syrah, and 6% Grenache, it comes 100% from the Cumulus Vineyard in Oak View and spent 33 months in 60% new French oak. There are a tiny 89 cases produced. Its deep purple hue is followed by a majestic bouquet of black cherries, cassis, blackberries, toasted spices, and flowery incense. With medium to full-bodied richness, a flawlessly balanced, elegant texture, silky tannins, and a saliva-inducing finish, it has one of the longest finishes in a wine I've encountered. I have no idea how this will evolve over the long-term, but I can't imagine it not benefiting from 2-4 years of bottle age and drinking brilliantly for at least 10-15 years." JD Aug 2020