98 points Jeb Dunnuck

A thrilling Grenache that has an almost Janasse Vieille Vignes like aromatic profile, the 2008 Sine Qua Non Grenache The Duel is a blend of 82% Grenache, 14% Syrah, 2% Viognier, and 2% Roussanne, all from the estate’s Eleven Confessions vineyard, that was fermented with 32% whole cluster and aged in a scant 15% new French oak. Incredibly pure and energetic, it displays knockout aromas of crisp red and black berry fruit, licorice, roasted meats, crushed flowers, and sappy underbrush to go with saturating, liquid mineral like quality that permeates both the aromas and flavors. Full-bodied and very rich, it nevertheless stays gorgeously focused and detailed on the palate, with a silky texture riding over firm underlying tannin and notable acidity. (12/2012)

97 points Wine Advocate

Sine Qua Non’s 2008 Grenache Estate The Duel boasts extraordinary richness, power and sheer depth. Tobacco, leather, mint and spices are woven together in this large-scaled Grenache. There is plenty of intensity here, but the 2008 has just a touch less aromatic definition than the very finest wines at Sine Qua Non. I imagine some of that may be the result of extended aging in oak. The 2008 is 82% Grenache, 14% Syrah, 2% Viognier and 1% Roussanne, all from the Eleven Confessions Vineyard in Santa Rita Hills. A portion of the Grenache was fermented using whole clusters. (AG) (8/2012)