2008 Donelan Cuvée Christine
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The 2008 Donelan Syrah Cuvée Christine is 100% Syrah from four different Sonoma County vineyards. More ripe and forward than the Kobler Family Vineyard, it displays meaty aromatics of spiced cherries and blackberry fruits that are intermixed with violets, potpourri, dried flowers, smoked meats, and leather. Medium to full bodied on the palate with juicy fruit, a viscous, rich texture, solid tannin structure and racy acidity that carries into a long, chewy finish, this awesome wine should drink beautifully for 12 to 15 years. A great mix of California fruit with a northern Rhone kick.
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Robert Parker
Jeb Dunnuck
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The 2008 Donelan Syrah Cuvee Christine is a St.-Joseph/Crozes-Hermitage style of Syrah produced from four separate Sonoma County vineyards with 40% whole clusters. It reveals a dark plum/purple color as well as sweet, smoky, meaty, foresty notes with hints of fruitcake, black raspberry, and dark cherries in the background. Fresh, lively, and full-bodied with remarkably delicate, vibrant fruit as well as over 15% alcohol, this big, chewy red can be drunk over the next 7-10 years. The troubled departure of Pax Mahle as winemaker from this operation owned primarily by Joe Donelan has resulted in a change of name. Coinciding with the 2008s, this is now Donelan Family Wines. The reviews that follow include the 2007s, the last wines produced under the Pax Cellars moniker, with the 2008s to be released under the Donelan Family Wines. Pax Mahle now has his own up-and-coming winery called Wind Gap. One of the most interesting vineyards Donelan has used is the Obsidian Vineyard in Knight’s Valley. This vineyard’s soil resembles black marble, and the result is an extraordinary wine with characteristics that are nearly impossible to articulate. Tel. (707) 591-0782; Fax (707) 591-0784