2017 Sine Qua Non

The Gorgeous Victim

Grenache

America / California / Central Coast  / Santa Rita Hills

$275
JD 98
RP 98
V 97
Size:
Quantity:

Availability: 4

2017 Sine Qua Non The Gorgeous Victim – A Masterpiece of California Rhône Innovation

The 2017 Sine Qua Non The Gorgeous Victim continues the legacy of Manfred and Elaine Krankl’s visionary winery, one of the most acclaimed producers of Rhône-inspired blends in California. Known for creativity, individuality, and meticulous craftsmanship, Sine Qua Non releases are always limited and highly collectible. The 2017 bottling, with its evocative name and striking balance, exemplifies the estate’s artistry and its cult status among California Cult Wines.

Tasting Notes

The wine opens with expressive aromas of blackberry compote, blueberry, and violet, layered with notes of incense, peppercorn, and a touch of dark chocolate. The palate is expansive yet detailed, delivering waves of ripe black fruit, olive tapenade, and savory spice. Silky tannins and vibrant acidity give shape and energy to the long, polished finish.

Winemaking & Vineyard Details

The 2017 The Gorgeous Victim is a Rhône-style blend dominated by Syrah, with portions of Grenache, Mourvèdre, and small amounts of other varietals depending on vineyard sources. The fruit is sourced from Sine Qua Non’s estate vineyards in Ventura and Santa Barbara counties. Vinified with painstaking attention to detail, the wine was aged in French oak barrels, a significant portion new, to enhance structure and aromatic complexity.

Investment & Collectibility

Sine Qua Non wines are among the most collectible in California, known for their scarcity, unique labeling, and world-class quality. The 2017 The Gorgeous Victim is no exception, already sought after by collectors who prize individuality and critical acclaim. With limited release quantities, it remains one of the most difficult wines to acquire. Perfect for your collection.

Vintage Specifics & Accolades

The 2017 vintage in California was marked by a warm, dry growing season, producing Rhône varietals with richness, depth, and freshness. Despite challenging conditions for yields, the resulting wines offer concentration and impeccable balance.

  • 98 pointsRobert Parker's Wine Advocate
  • 97 pointsVinous
  • 96 pointsWine Spectator

Explore Related Collections


JD 98

Jeb Dunnuck

(Rating: 98+). Tasted from bottle, the deeply hued 2017 Grenache The Gorgeous Victim checks in as 76% Grenache, 10% Mourvedre, 9% Syrah, and the rest Petite Sirah and Viognier. This deep purple Grenache boasts a savory, almost bloody style that delivers full-bodied aromas and flavors of kirsch, blackberries, ground pepper, graphite, and iron. It has loads of depth, a stacked mid-palate, and enough tannins to warrant 2-4 years of bottle age. This sexy, perfumed, complex, singular beauty will drink beautifully for 20 years or more. Reviewed by Jeb Dunnuck, Issue date: August 2020. Drinking window: 2022 - 2044.
RP 98

Robert Parker Wine Advocate

The 2017 Grenache The Gorgeous Victim (first tasted last year as a barrel sample and before it had been named) is composed of 76% Grenache, 10% Mourvèdre, 9% Syrah, 3.8% Petit Sirah and 1.2% Viognier. The vineyard sources are: are 46% Cumulus Estate, 29% Eleven Confessions Estate, 6% Molly Aida Estate, 17% The Third Twin Estate and 2% Bien Nacido Vineyard. It was aged for around 23 months in 23% new French oak, 48% used oak (various sizes) and 29% concrete. Forty-six percent (mainly Grenache) was fermented using whole clusters. Deep garnet-purple in color, this wine has a very serious nose of game, fertile soil, crushed rocks and new leather over a wonderfully pure, well-defined core of crushed black cherries and ripe blackberries with wafts of unsmoked cigars and Sichuan pepper. Full-bodied, rich, concentrated and built like a brick house, it has a solid backbone of firm, finely grained tannins and great acidity, finishing long and mineral laced. 1,212 cases and 600 magnums were made. "The Gorgeous Victim" features an old black and white photo on the label, taken by Manfred Krankl's grandfather, of a deer brought home, thoughtfully arranged and displayed with personal props in the middle of a floor. The name and, in fact, the style of the wine are intriguingly complementary to the picture, collectively creating a compelling story that I would defy drinkers to say is merely the power of suggestion. The companion 2017 Syrah to this Grenache is "The Hated Hunter"—a reference to Manfred's grandfather. Reviewed by Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Issue date: August 2020. Drinking window: 2022 - 2039.
V 97

Vinous

The 2017 Grenache The Gorgeous Victim is even better from bottle than it was from barrel. It needs quite a bit of time to be at its best, so decanting is required in order for the wine to unleash all of its profound beauty. The aromatics alone are breathtaking. Varietal Grenache notes build as this stunning wine shows off its remarkable pedigree. Inky red fruit, blood orange and sweet floral notes are all laced into the wonderfully deep finish. The 2017 is 76% Grenache, 10% Mourvèdre, 9% Syrah, 3.8% Petite Sirah and 1.2% Viognier, vinified with 46% whole clusters, from Cumulus, The Third Twin Estate Vineyard, Eleven Confessions and Molly Aïda (all estate ranches, and just a dollop of fruit from Bien Nacido. Reviewed by Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Issue date: July 2020. Drinking window: 2020 - 2032.

Domestic Shipping

We currently ship to all U.S. states where the shipment of alcohol is legally permitted. Orders are fulfilled via UPS.

Orders placed Monday through Thursday before 2:00 p.m. Pacific Time typically ship the same day. Orders placed after 2:00 p.m. on Thursday through Sunday will ship the following Monday.

Same-day delivery may be available within the Los Angeles Metro area if placed before noon. Please contact us at (626) 714-7006 to arrange expedited local service.

Packaging & Warm Weather Shipping

To protect wine quality, all orders are packed in EPS foam shippers with gel packs when necessary. During warmer months, we recommend selecting Next Day Air service. If Ground shipping is selected during high temperatures, a signed waiver may be required to release us from liability due to heat exposure.

For OWC (Original Wooden Case) orders, bottles are removed and shipped in foam for safety. The wooden case ships separately via Ground unless otherwise requested.

Weather Holds & Free Storage

In periods of extreme weather, we reserve the right to delay shipment until safe conditions return. If you request immediate shipment during such periods, you must confirm in writing and acknowledge that you waive any condition guarantees.

We also offer complimentary temperature-controlled storage for up to 6 months from the date of purchase. Select the “Hold for Weather” option at checkout and we will coordinate shipping at a later date.

Insurance

We provide free shipping insurance for loss or visible damage during transit, per carrier terms and conditions.

Adult Signature Required

All shipments of alcohol require an adult signature (21+) upon delivery. Carriers will not release packages without adult authorization. Additional charges may apply for re-delivery, redirection, or failed delivery attempts.

Shipping Address Accuracy

Orders are shipped to the exact shipping address provided at checkout. Angry Wine Merchant is not responsible for errors or omissions in the address submitted by the customer. If a package is delayed, returned, or misdelivered due to incorrect shipping details, the customer assumes full responsibility. Additional shipping fees may apply if re-shipment is required. By placing an order, you confirm that the shipping address entered is correct and agree to these terms.

States We Ship To

We ship to the following U.S. states:

Alabama (AL), Alaska (AK), Arizona (AZ), Arkansas (AR), California (CA), Colorado (CO), Connecticut (CT), Delaware (DE), Florida (FL), Georgia (GA), Hawaii (HI), Idaho (ID), Illinois (IL), Indiana (IN), Iowa (IA), Kansas (KS), Kentucky (KY), Louisiana (LA), Maine (ME), Maryland (MD), Massachusetts (MA), Michigan (MI), Minnesota (MN), Mississippi (MS), Missouri (MO), Montana (MT), Nebraska (NE), Nevada (NV), New Hampshire (NH), New Jersey (NJ), New Mexico (NM), New York (NY), North Carolina (NC), Ohio (OH), Oklahoma (OK), Oregon (OR), Pennsylvania (PA), Rhode Island (RI), South Carolina (SC), South Dakota (SD), Tennessee (TN), Texas (TX), Vermont (VT), Virginia (VA), Washington (WA), West Virginia (WV), Wisconsin (WI), Wyoming (WY)

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International Shipping

We do offer international shipping where legally allowed. For details, click here or contact us directly.

  • CRITICAL REVIEWS
  • WINEMAKER NOTES
JD 98

Jeb Dunnuck

(Rating: 98+). Tasted from bottle, the deeply hued 2017 Grenache The Gorgeous Victim checks in as 76% Grenache, 10% Mourvedre, 9% Syrah, and the rest Petite Sirah and Viognier. This deep purple Grenache boasts a savory, almost bloody style that delivers full-bodied aromas and flavors of kirsch, blackberries, ground pepper, graphite, and iron. It has loads of depth, a stacked mid-palate, and enough tannins to warrant 2-4 years of bottle age. This sexy, perfumed, complex, singular beauty will drink beautifully for 20 years or more. Reviewed by Jeb Dunnuck, Issue date: August 2020. Drinking window: 2022 - 2044.
RP 98

Robert Parker Wine Advocate

The 2017 Grenache The Gorgeous Victim (first tasted last year as a barrel sample and before it had been named) is composed of 76% Grenache, 10% Mourvèdre, 9% Syrah, 3.8% Petit Sirah and 1.2% Viognier. The vineyard sources are: are 46% Cumulus Estate, 29% Eleven Confessions Estate, 6% Molly Aida Estate, 17% The Third Twin Estate and 2% Bien Nacido Vineyard. It was aged for around 23 months in 23% new French oak, 48% used oak (various sizes) and 29% concrete. Forty-six percent (mainly Grenache) was fermented using whole clusters. Deep garnet-purple in color, this wine has a very serious nose of game, fertile soil, crushed rocks and new leather over a wonderfully pure, well-defined core of crushed black cherries and ripe blackberries with wafts of unsmoked cigars and Sichuan pepper. Full-bodied, rich, concentrated and built like a brick house, it has a solid backbone of firm, finely grained tannins and great acidity, finishing long and mineral laced. 1,212 cases and 600 magnums were made. "The Gorgeous Victim" features an old black and white photo on the label, taken by Manfred Krankl's grandfather, of a deer brought home, thoughtfully arranged and displayed with personal props in the middle of a floor. The name and, in fact, the style of the wine are intriguingly complementary to the picture, collectively creating a compelling story that I would defy drinkers to say is merely the power of suggestion. The companion 2017 Syrah to this Grenache is "The Hated Hunter"—a reference to Manfred's grandfather. Reviewed by Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Issue date: August 2020. Drinking window: 2022 - 2039.
V 97

Vinous

The 2017 Grenache The Gorgeous Victim is even better from bottle than it was from barrel. It needs quite a bit of time to be at its best, so decanting is required in order for the wine to unleash all of its profound beauty. The aromatics alone are breathtaking. Varietal Grenache notes build as this stunning wine shows off its remarkable pedigree. Inky red fruit, blood orange and sweet floral notes are all laced into the wonderfully deep finish. The 2017 is 76% Grenache, 10% Mourvèdre, 9% Syrah, 3.8% Petite Sirah and 1.2% Viognier, vinified with 46% whole clusters, from Cumulus, The Third Twin Estate Vineyard, Eleven Confessions and Molly Aïda (all estate ranches, and just a dollop of fruit from Bien Nacido. Reviewed by Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Issue date: July 2020. Drinking window: 2020 - 2032.

2017 Sine Qua Non The Gorgeous Victim – A Masterpiece of California Rhône Innovation

The 2017 Sine Qua Non The Gorgeous Victim continues the legacy of Manfred and Elaine Krankl’s visionary winery, one of the most acclaimed producers of Rhône-inspired blends in California. Known for creativity, individuality, and meticulous craftsmanship, Sine Qua Non releases are always limited and highly collectible. The 2017 bottling, with its evocative name and striking balance, exemplifies the estate’s artistry and its cult status among California Cult Wines.

Tasting Notes

The wine opens with expressive aromas of blackberry compote, blueberry, and violet, layered with notes of incense, peppercorn, and a touch of dark chocolate. The palate is expansive yet detailed, delivering waves of ripe black fruit, olive tapenade, and savory spice. Silky tannins and vibrant acidity give shape and energy to the long, polished finish.

Winemaking & Vineyard Details

The 2017 The Gorgeous Victim is a Rhône-style blend dominated by Syrah, with portions of Grenache, Mourvèdre, and small amounts of other varietals depending on vineyard sources. The fruit is sourced from Sine Qua Non’s estate vineyards in Ventura and Santa Barbara counties. Vinified with painstaking attention to detail, the wine was aged in French oak barrels, a significant portion new, to enhance structure and aromatic complexity.

Investment & Collectibility

Sine Qua Non wines are among the most collectible in California, known for their scarcity, unique labeling, and world-class quality. The 2017 The Gorgeous Victim is no exception, already sought after by collectors who prize individuality and critical acclaim. With limited release quantities, it remains one of the most difficult wines to acquire. Perfect for your collection.

Vintage Specifics & Accolades

The 2017 vintage in California was marked by a warm, dry growing season, producing Rhône varietals with richness, depth, and freshness. Despite challenging conditions for yields, the resulting wines offer concentration and impeccable balance.

  • 98 pointsRobert Parker's Wine Advocate
  • 97 pointsVinous
  • 96 pointsWine Spectator

Explore Related Collections


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