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 ship wine to eligible U.S. states via UPS or FedEx. Orders placed Monday through Thursday before 2:00 p.m. Pacific Time typically ship the same day. Orders placed after the shipping cutoff will be scheduled for the next available shipping day.
Los Angeles Delivery
Same-day delivery may be available within the Los Angeles area Monday through Friday for orders placed before 2:00 p.m. Pacific Time. Please contact us to confirm availability and delivery arrangements.
Packaging & Temperature
Wine is packed in protective EPS foam shipping containers, with gel packs used when appropriate. Original Wooden Cases (OWC) are shipped separately to help protect both the wine and the wooden case during transit.
Because wine is temperature-sensitive, we may recommend expedited shipping or holding an order when weather conditions present an elevated risk. Please review our Temperature Protection & Shipping Policy for additional information.
Weather Holds & Storage
During periods of extreme heat or cold, shipments may be delayed until conditions improve. Customers may also request that an order be held for a later shipping date.
Complimentary temperature-controlled storage is available for up to 6 months from the date of purchase. Select the available weather-hold option at checkout or contact us to coordinate a future shipment.
Shipping Protection
Shipping protection for loss or visible damage in transit is included with eligible shipments, subject to applicable terms and carrier requirements. Temperature-related deterioration is not covered.
Please review our Temperature Protection & Shipping Policy for additional details.
Adult Signature Required
All wine deliveries require an adult signature from a recipient age 21 or older. Please ensure an eligible adult is available to receive the shipment.
Additional carrier charges may apply for failed delivery attempts, address changes, redirection, returned shipments, or reshipment.
Shipping Address
Please verify your shipping address carefully before completing checkout. Additional charges resulting from an incorrect or incomplete address, rerouting, returned shipment, or reshipment are the responsibility of the customer.
International Shipping
International shipping may be available to select destinations and requires review before purchase. Please see our International Shipping Information for eligibility and inquiry details.
Where We Ship
We currently ship wine to the following U.S. states:
Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.
Shipping laws and carrier availability may change. If your state is not available as a shipping destination at checkout, please contact us to confirm current eligibility.
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
Choose options