The 2020 Sine Qua Non White Distenta [Proprietary Blend] is a notable white wine from the Central Coast region of California, specifically San Luis Obispo. This wine is a proprietary blend predominantly comprising 32% Roussanne, 26% Viognier, 25% Chardonnay, with smaller portions of Gelber Muskateller and Petit Manseng. The grapes were meticulously sourced from various esteemed vineyards, including Eleven Confessions, Third Twin, Cumulus, and Bien Nacido, and the wine was matured for 23 months in 45% new French oak barrels.

Jeb Dunnuck, awarding the wine an impressive 99 points, highlights its "incredible aromatics of buttered apricots, acacia flowers, orange blossom, brioche, and caramelized pineapple." He describes it as "full-bodied, has a pure, layered mouthfeel, beautiful freshness, and a great finish." Dunnuck further remarks, "I don’t know anyone doing white blends like this at the same level," emphasizing the wine's exceptional quality.

Vinous, with a score of 95, praises the wine's "rich, deep" character and notes that the extended élevage of 23 months in wood "works beautifully with this fruit." The review mentions nuances of "dried lemon peel, chamomile, sage, mint, and white pepper," but it is the "textural resonance" that stands out most. Vinous calls it "one of the finest whites I have tasted from Sine Qua Non in some time."

Robert Parker's Wine Advocate gives the wine 98 points, describing it as potentially "polarizing" due to its "unique style, intense aromatics, and powerful structure." The review likens the drinking experience to an "omakase-like journey," beginning with "naturally bitter phenolics" and evolving into "soaring perfume" and "dessert-like honeyed tones." The wine is noted for carrying its high alcohol content (15.8%) "expertly" while maintaining "a focused streak of tangy acidity."

Overall, the 2020 Sine Qua Non White Distenta is a complex and expertly crafted wine, praised for its aromatic depth, textural richness, and unique style. It stands out as a testament to the innovative blending and winemaking techniques of Sine Qua Non.