2021 Graciano

Elaine and Manfred Krankl presented a range of exceptional wines across their three projects, but that’s no surprise. What impresses me most is that after all these years, the Krankls retain a sense of childlike joy in their work that translates into a restless desire to experiment and try new things. Whether that manifests as planting new vineyards, refining farming and winemaking or approaching every wine each year with a blank slate, there is always something new to discover with each tasting, which is one of the reasons I find these wines so captivating. The Krankls were the first producers to believe in the potential of Rhône varieties in the Sta. Rita Hills; today, many estates have followed suit and continue to plant Grenache and Syrah. The Krankls’ newly completed winery in the heart of the appellation is impossible to miss. As for the wines? Well, they are truly spectacular. I prefer to drink them after a few years in bottle.