Reviews & Ratings

2013 Donelan Syrah & Shiraz (Other than French) "Walker Vine Hill"

Winery: Donelan

Vintage: 2013

Wine Name/Vineyard: "Walker Vine Hill"

Wine Category: Syrah & Shiraz (Other than French)

Grape blend: 100% Syrah

Bottle size: 750 ml

Region: Russian River Valley

State or country: CA

Price: $80

Cases produced: 125

KWG Score: 95 (based on 3 reviews)

Ken's Wine Rating: Very Good+ (93)

Review date: April 4, 2016

Wine Review: This pitch black colored Syrah from Donelan is very good. It opens with a mild blackberry and black pepper like bouquet. On the palate, this wine is medium bodied, slightly acidic, juicy and savory at the same time. The flavor profile is a black raspberry and mild mineral blend with notes of plum and black licorice. I also detected some hints of black pepper, blueberry and oak towards the end. The finish is dry and its moderate tannins are nicely prolonged. This very good Syrah get better the longer it is open. It is built for braised short ribs. Enjoy - Ken

Winemaker Notes: The 2013 pulls the best traits from each vintage of Walker Syrah's history at Donelan Wines: 2008's richness, 2009's acidity, 2010's purity, 2011's spice and 2012's structure. The final blend is driven by an extremely seductive nose with chocolate covered blueberries, red currants, and clove unfolding on the nose. The palate is densely constructed with velvety tannins and a long, full finish.

Buy it: Use 1000 Corks to find stores that sell Donelan 2013 Walker Vine Hill Syrah.