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94 WA.
"Brilliant, with loads of meat, game, pepper and spice, as well as a core of blacker fruit, the 2011 Syrah Donna’s, which saw 40% whole clusters during fermentation and aging all in neutral oak, has a firmer, more structured feel than the Verna’s. Ethereally textured, supple and with juicy, yet integrated acidity, this medium-bodied Syrah has gorgeous purity of fruit and enough tannin to keep it drinking nicely for over a decade. Like the Verna’s, it has the texture and fruit to be delicious now, yet will benefit from short-term cellaring. Drink 2015-2026. Winemaker Greg Brewer and grower Chad Melville continue to knock it out of the park with these Melville releases. Focusing on site, if not plot, specific releases, neutral oak, no SO2 until racking and varying degrees of whole cluster are the norm here. The wines have individual characters and, stylistically, lean toward the more complex, finesse-driven side of the spectrum. They “wow” more for their balance and nuance than their power and richness. They also remain reasonably priced." Wine Advocate #208, Aug 2013 |