1995 Sine Qua Non, SQN, Red Handed, Arroyo Grande Valley, Bottle (750ml) [Scuffed Label]
Product Description
"Readers who love Rhone-styled wines must get on Sine Qua Non's mailing list in order to have a chance of latching onto a few bottles of the following vinous treasure. The limited production 1995 Red Handed is a blend of 43% Grenache, 40% Syrah, and 17% Mourvedre blend aged 18 months in oak, of which 50% was new. This wine wants to be a southern California Chateauneuf du Pape, and comes close to duplicating the character of a hedonistic southern Rhone. Sadly, only eighty 6-bottle cases were produced. The color is an impressively saturated red/black/purple. The wine offers up aromas of cigar box, fruitcake, cedar, pepper, Provencal herb, and glorious levels of kirsch and other black fruits. The influence of oak frames the wine rather than adding much to the aromas or flavors. Extremely full-bodied, rich, chewy, and loaded with personality (another wine that reflects its makers), with a multi-dimensional palate, and beautifully integrated alcohol, acidity, and tannin, this wine has a singular personality and stupendous quality." RP Dec 1997