WINEMAKER NOTES
2016 Sine Qua Non 'Ratsel' Syrah – California’s Visionary Cult Red
The 2016 Sine Qua Non 'Rätsel' Syrah embodies the avant-garde philosophy of winemaker Manfred Krankl, whose groundbreaking blends have redefined the perception of Rhône varietals in California. Produced in tiny quantities, 'Rätsel' (meaning “riddle” in German) is both enigmatic and profound, reflecting the singular style that makes California Cult Wines so prized among collectors.
Tasting Notes
This Syrah is a study in complexity, opening with blackberry compote, cracked pepper, and smoked meats, followed by layers of lavender, dark chocolate, and tar. The palate is full-bodied yet precise, offering saturated dark fruit, supple tannins, and a long, savory finish laced with spice and mineral lift.
Winemaking & Vineyard Details
The 2016 'Rätsel' Syrah combines fruit from Sine Qua Non’s estate vineyards in Santa Barbara County. The blend includes Syrah with Grenache, Mourvèdre, and a touch of white varieties for aromatic lift. Aged for nearly 23 months in French oak, primarily new, the wine reflects meticulous craftsmanship and Krankl’s unique approach to blending and élevage.
Investment & Collectibility
Sine Qua Non bottlings are highly collectible due to their tiny production, distinctive labeling, and critical acclaim. The 2016 'Rätsel' Syrah is no exception, already commanding strong attention in the secondary market. With its rarity and 100-point pedigree, this wine is perfect for your collection.
Vintage Specifics & Accolades
The 2016 vintage in California was marked by a long, even growing season that delivered wines of balance, ripeness, and elegance. Sine Qua Non achieved remarkable concentration and polish in this release.
- 100 points – Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
- 99 points – Jeb Dunnuck
- 98 points – Vinous
Explore Related Collections
Shipping Information
Domestic Shipping
We currently ship to all U.S. states where the shipment of alcohol is legally permitted. Orders are fulfilled via UPS so please plan with their schedule.
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/Cold Weather Shipping
To protect wine quality, all orders are packed in EPS foam shippers, with gel packs when necessary. During extreme hot and cold days, we recommend selecting Next Day Air service. If Ground shipping is selected during extreme temperatures, a signed waiver may be required to release us from liability due to temperature 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.
2016 Sine Qua Non 'Ratsel' Syrah – California’s Visionary Cult Red
The 2016 Sine Qua Non 'Rätsel' Syrah embodies the avant-garde philosophy of winemaker Manfred Krankl, whose groundbreaking blends have redefined the perception of Rhône varietals in California. Produced in tiny quantities, 'Rätsel' (meaning “riddle” in German) is both enigmatic and profound, reflecting the singular style that makes California Cult Wines so prized among collectors.
Tasting Notes
This Syrah is a study in complexity, opening with blackberry compote, cracked pepper, and smoked meats, followed by layers of lavender, dark chocolate, and tar. The palate is full-bodied yet precise, offering saturated dark fruit, supple tannins, and a long, savory finish laced with spice and mineral lift.
Winemaking & Vineyard Details
The 2016 'Rätsel' Syrah combines fruit from Sine Qua Non’s estate vineyards in Santa Barbara County. The blend includes Syrah with Grenache, Mourvèdre, and a touch of white varieties for aromatic lift. Aged for nearly 23 months in French oak, primarily new, the wine reflects meticulous craftsmanship and Krankl’s unique approach to blending and élevage.
Investment & Collectibility
Sine Qua Non bottlings are highly collectible due to their tiny production, distinctive labeling, and critical acclaim. The 2016 'Rätsel' Syrah is no exception, already commanding strong attention in the secondary market. With its rarity and 100-point pedigree, this wine is perfect for your collection.
Vintage Specifics & Accolades
The 2016 vintage in California was marked by a long, even growing season that delivered wines of balance, ripeness, and elegance. Sine Qua Non achieved remarkable concentration and polish in this release.
- 100 points – Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
- 99 points – Jeb Dunnuck
- 98 points – Vinous
Explore Related Collections
2016 Sine Qua Non 'Ratsel' Syrah – California’s Visionary Cult Red
The 2016 Sine Qua Non 'Rätsel' Syrah embodies the avant-garde philosophy of winemaker Manfred Krankl, whose groundbreaking blends have redefined the perception of Rhône varietals in California. Produced in tiny quantities, 'Rätsel' (meaning “riddle” in German) is both enigmatic and profound, reflecting the singular style that makes California Cult Wines so prized among collectors.
Tasting Notes
This Syrah is a study in complexity, opening with blackberry compote, cracked pepper, and smoked meats, followed by layers of lavender, dark chocolate, and tar. The palate is full-bodied yet precise, offering saturated dark fruit, supple tannins, and a long, savory finish laced with spice and mineral lift.
Winemaking & Vineyard Details
The 2016 'Rätsel' Syrah combines fruit from Sine Qua Non’s estate vineyards in Santa Barbara County. The blend includes Syrah with Grenache, Mourvèdre, and a touch of white varieties for aromatic lift. Aged for nearly 23 months in French oak, primarily new, the wine reflects meticulous craftsmanship and Krankl’s unique approach to blending and élevage.
Investment & Collectibility
Sine Qua Non bottlings are highly collectible due to their tiny production, distinctive labeling, and critical acclaim. The 2016 'Rätsel' Syrah is no exception, already commanding strong attention in the secondary market. With its rarity and 100-point pedigree, this wine is perfect for your collection.
Vintage Specifics & Accolades
The 2016 vintage in California was marked by a long, even growing season that delivered wines of balance, ripeness, and elegance. Sine Qua Non achieved remarkable concentration and polish in this release.
- 100 points – Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
- 99 points – Jeb Dunnuck
- 98 points – Vinous
Explore Related Collections
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