Varietal: Syrah Region: California Country: United States

ABOUT SINE QUA NON:

Manfred Krankl founded Sine Qua Non in 1994, working in California’s south central coast and Santa Barbara County regions, ground zero for the emerging “Rhône Ranger” scene. He was helped by friends such as Adam Tolmach at Ojai Vineyard and John Alban of Alban Vineyards, and bought grapes from Alban as well as Stolpman, Bien Nacido, Shadow Canyon and White Hawk Vineyards but has since started developing vineyards owned by he and his wife, Elaine, dedicated to Rhone varietals. His estate vineyards include Cumulus Vineyard in Ventura County, 11 Confessions Vineyard in the Santa Rita Hills, as well as his property in Alisos Canyon. The white wines have always been a blend of Chardonnay, Roussanne and Viognier and the red wines Syrah and Grenache. Sometimes he produces small amounts of Rose.

Sine Qua Non's winery facility is in Ventura, California. As winemaker, Krankl treats each vintage as a completely unique wine which is why he gives each wine a unique name. He also personally creates the artwork for each new label. His meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail, both in the vineyard and in the winery, have been increasingly noticeable in the mid to late 2000's when he seemed to hit full stride. Manfred has turned out successful vintage after vintage and with each amazing vintage comes equally incredible and expressive label artwork and meticulously crafted wood wine boxes.