The 2014 Sine Qua Non Piranha Waterdance Syrah is a truly exceptional wine, hailed by critics with a perfect 100 points from Robert Parker. This vintage is noted for its plush and sexy character, offering an immediately irresistible style. Crafted by the visionary Manfred Krankl, known for giving each vintage a unique name and designing its distinctive label, this wine is a blend of 81% Syrah, 8% Petite Sirah, 6% Mourvèdre, 4% Touriga Nacional, and 1% Graciano, meticulously sourced from the estate's Third Twin, Eleven Confessions, and Cumulus vineyards. It underwent 26% whole cluster fermentation and was aged in just over 50% new oak, with a limited production of 1,839 cases and 600 magnums. In the glass, it presents an inky purple hue. The nose is a captivating symphony of exuberant crème de cassis, blackberry cordial, and blueberry coulis, interwoven with hints of espresso, licorice, garrigue, menthol, and a beautiful perfume of red roses. You might also detect black raspberries, roasted meats, herbs, black pepper, cinnamon stick, and a touch of turmeric. On the palate, it's full-bodied and powerful, yet remarkably balanced and polished, revealing layers of dark berries, plum, blackberries, smoke, menthol, and cassis. Despite its 15.8% ABV, the alcohol is subtly integrated due to the sheer abundance of fruit. It boasts an almost elegant, refined quality with intense concentration, finely pixelated tannins, and an electric intensity that culminates in an epically long, licorice and chocolate-laced finish. The mouthfeel is plush and silky, offering dark fruit notes balanced by earthy and savory undertones. This wine is drinking wonderfully now but is still quite young and promises to evolve beautifully, with a drinking window extending to 2040. Food pairing suggestions: For food pairings, this bold Syrah stands up to rich and flavorful dishes. Consider lamb, Indian cuisine like Masala Dosa, or spicy vegetarian nachos. It can also surprisingly complement crab cakes, bringing out a vanilla creme note, or a rich steak, where its voluptuous fruit shines. For a truly decadent experience, some have even found it pairs well with a chocolate sundae. Event suggestions: This wine is perfect for a momentous celebration or a connoisseur's gathering, where its rarity and critical acclaim can be fully appreciated. Its profound depth and aging potential also make it an ideal candidate for cellaring to mark a future significant milestone. If enjoying now, a minimum of three hours of decanting is recommended, and serving it closer to 60°F (15.5°C) will ensure the alcohol is well-integrated. 【 Robert Parker 100 points 】