2004 Sine Qua Non Sémillon Mr K Vin de Paille The Straw Man
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Tasting notes
(for 375 ml.; from Brander Vineyard) Golden bronze. Deep apricot and orange marmalade aromas are complicated by an exotic bouquet of floral honey, licorice, botanical herbs and magnolia. Soft and fleshy, with sticky pit fruit and tangerine flavors gently supported by fresh minerality. A baking spice character builds with air, brightening the sappy, refreshingly bitter finish. If you can call it a finish, that is: I was tasting this an hour down the road. "The key to a wine like this is starting off with perfectly ripe fruit," says Krankl.
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Average Score
Robert Parker
Josh Raynolds
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The monumental 2004 Mr. K. The Straw Man, a Semillon Vin de Pays, possesses 9.9% alcohol and 310 grams per liter of residual sugar yet an amazing 7.6 grams per liter of acidity. An elixir of amazing proportions, there are 2,500 half bottles, which will be released in early 2008. Astounding notes of marmalade, creme brulee, and a liqueur of roasted nuts are accompanied by fabulous acidity, which provides uplift and vibrancy in spite of its enormous richness and unctuosity. The only thing I can say is you must taste it to believe it! I have no idea how long these sweeties will keep, but they should easily last for two decades or more. To reiterate, it is a challenge to analyze these wines. I know they are distinctive, and I think I am beginning to understand why they are so much greater than just about every other Syrah or Grenache-based wine in California. In short, it is talent and incredibly meticulous hard work. No one works as hard or is as maniacal about a vineyard’s viticulture and winemaking as Manfred Krankl. Take that, add in exceptional talent, humility, top-notch vineyards, and I believe I understand the fundamentals of why these wines are so special. Tel. (805) 649-8901
About the producer
The brainchild of Manfred Krankl, Sine Qua Non (commonly known as SQN) is a cult California producer whose wines are avidly collected. The winery focuses on Rhône-inspired blends, however is famously non-conformist with each release totally unique.