1999 Sine Qua Non Mr. K DBS Central Coast Blanc 375ml

The 1999 Sine Qua Non Mr. K DBS Central Coast Blanc is a legendary dessert wine masterpiece. Furthermore, this rare bottling represents an iconic collaboration between Manfred Krankl and the late Alois Kracher. Consequently, this cuvée unites California’s bold sunshine with Austria’s historic sweet wine traditions. Serious fine wine collectors actively pursue this elusive half-bottle worldwide.

Additionally, the 1999 harvest produced fruit of sensational aromatic purity and decadent concentration. Meanwhile, Krankl and Kracher applied obsessive artisan methods to capture thrilling acidity. Therefore, this monumental release effortlessly rivals the greatest Trockenbeerenauslese and Sauternes in longevity.

Terroir & Viticulture

The Viognier fruit originates entirely from John Alban’s acclaimed estate vineyard in Edna Valley. Specifically, this cool maritime site features gravelly clay loam over fractured chalky bedrock. The vines absorb radiant daytime warmth while marine fog rolls in from the nearby Pacific Ocean. As a result, this prolonged hang-time develops immense varietal complexity without sacrificing natural acidity.

Meanwhile, the vineyard team hand-selected pristine berries that experienced natural desiccation. Manfred Krankl prioritized ultra-low yields to harvest tiny, thick-skinned grapes. Furthermore, botrytis cinerea naturally concentrated the sugars and tartaric acids within each cluster. Thus, the fruit arrived at the press with astonishing dry extract and sweetness.

Vinification & Craftsmanship

In the cellar, Krankl and Kracher followed a meticulous, purist approach to sweet winemaking. First, they pressed the desiccated whole clusters with extreme care over many hours. Subsequently, the viscous must fermented slowly with indigenous yeasts in French oak barrels. This deliberate fermentation took months to complete under cold cellar temperatures.

Moreover, the wine matured on its fine lees in neutral and seasoned French oak barriques. Both winemakers strictly avoided mechanical intervention, fining, and filtration throughout the process. Crucially, soaring residual sugar found perfect equilibrium against high natural acidity. Finally, they bottled the nectar into traditional 375ml half-bottles.

Tasting Notes

In the glass, Mr. K DBS displays a luminous amber-bronze robe with golden reflections. Immediately, the nose bursts with flamboyant aromas of dried apricots, orange blossom honey, and candied peach. In addition, savory undertones of caramel, toasted hazelnuts, and jasmine flower slowly unfold with air.

On the palate, the wine feels unctuous, viscid, and profoundly concentrated. However, a vibrant spine of citrus acidity cuts cleanly through the immense sweetness. Consequently, the finish echoes with marmalade, roasted toffee, and lingering saline freshness. Ultimately, it leaves a majestic impression that coats the palate for minutes.

Technical Specifications

• Producer: Sine Qua Non (Manfred Krankl & Alois Kracher)
• Appellation: Central Coast AVA (Edna Valley, California)
• Cuvée: Mr. K DBS (Dried Berry Selection)
• Vineyard Source: Alban Vineyards
• Varietal: 100% Viognier
• Style: Trockenbeerenauslese Style (Botrytis & Passerillage)
• Aging: Matured in French Oak Barriques
• Clarification: Unfined & Unfiltered
• Alcohol: ~13.0% ABV
• Vintage: 1999
• Volume: 375ml

Service & Cellar Potential

Serve this exquisite dessert wine chilled between 10°C and 12°C (50°F–54°F). Specifically, select universal white wine glasses to give its exotic floral perfume room to breathe. Therefore, pull the cork 30 minutes prior to service to allow the wine to unfurl.

Pair this rich wine with artisanal blue cheeses, foie gras terrine, or apricot tarts. Furthermore, its monumental concentration and high acidity provide virtually indestructible cellar stamina. As a result, collectors can enjoy this bottle today or cellar it safely through 2045+.