2016 Donelan Syrah Grande
Market price
Buying options
Tasting notes
A new cuvée that comes from a mix of the Obsidian and Kobler Vineyards, the 2016 Syrah Grande is 100% Syrah that was brought up in 50% new French oak, which is high for this estate. It's certainly the richest, biggest, and most opulent Syrah in the lineup, yet it unquestionably holds onto the classic, cool-climate style of the estate. Revealing a deep ruby/purple hue as well as a kaleidoscope-like array of black raspberries, mulberries, licorice, roasted herbs, pepper, and chocolate, this beauty hits the palate with full-bodied richness, a round, expansive texture, gorgeous tannins, and a heck of a lengthy finish. With air, more tapenade and bloody, meaty, iron nuances develop. This singular, thrilling Syrah will continue drinking well for another 15 years.
Critic scores
Average Score
Jeb Dunnuck
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
The 2016 Syrah Grande Sonoma County is fabulous. Dark, inky and yet also wonderfully vibrant, the 2016 captures all the best signatures of the Donelan style in a Syrah that is wonderfully polished right out of the gate. Black cherry, tobacco, spice, menthol, licorice and new leather build over time. Bright saline notes underpin it all, adding notable freshness and vibrancy. The 2016 is beautifully done from start to finish.
The 2016 Syrah Grande has a deep ruby-purple color and opens with notes of tar and mint leaves over blackcurrant fruit with touches of coffee, black soil and spice. The palate is medium to full-bodied with dense, earthy fruits and a firm frame, leaving me wishing for more lift and freshness on the dense finish.