2009 Cuvee Keltie Syrah

Also remarkable, the 2009 Cuvee Keltie leans more toward a Chave style of Hermitage, particularly their Cuvee Cathelin. An inky/black color is followed by abundant notes of creme de cassis, roast beef, blackberries, bouquet garni and graphite. This extremely full-bodied, dense 2009 saturates the palate with intensity, and the finish lasts for nearly 60 seconds. This gorgeous 2009 should drink well for 15+ years. The most expensive offering in the Donelan portfolio is the Syrah Richard’s Family Vineyard, which is situated in the northwest corner of Sonoma County. This cuvee’s debut was in 2004, and no offering was produced in 2010. This is one of the most impressive Rhone Ranger winemaking estates in California. They have also expanded their portfolio to make small quantities of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. For me, the real glories of Donelan Family Wines are their Syrahs. As the tasting notes suggest, 2011 turned out well here despite the challenges. However, if you can still track down a bottle or two of the 2009s and 2010s, you are in for something very special. Joe Donelan believes their finest wine, representing the best vineyard parcels and top barrel selections is the Cuvee Keltie, which normally comes from specific sub-sections of such vineyard sources as Obsidian, Richard’s Family, Steiner Ranch and Walker Vine Hill. Kudos to Donelan Family Wines! Tel. (707) 591-0782