September 2 is the deadline for reserving your 2009 Sine Qua Non allocation. This year’s offerings are 6 x 2009 Syrah “The Thrill of …” (RP 96-98) and 6 x 2009 Grenache “Upside Down” (RP 94-96). Grenache fans will appreciate the increased Grenache offering, which is often about half the Syrah availability.
If you are buying these to drink, the release price of $145 compares favorably with the $250+ typical auction price.
If you are buying these to flip, Parker’s sub 100 point ratings will keep these wines from getting much higher than $250 in the near term. Auction house fees of 22%, together with shipping fees, plus state tax fees will drive all the profit from re-sale. A profitless re-sale of Sine Qua Non is perfectly acceptable for speculators who want to remain on the allocation list, saving their dry powder for either a better vintage, or an Eleven Confessions offering. Bottom line: buy your entire allocation.