From our small lot collection and named for Ron Melville’s wife, Donna, this is 100% Sta.
Rita Hills estate fruit. It is a 3.6 acre section composed of two clones, Estrella and Clone 1,
on three di erent low-vigor rootstocks, and produces fruit of a special character for two
reasons. First, because the vines are planted in 20 feet of sand it always delivers an
intoxicating bouquet of owers and perfume. It is the absence of any material other than
sand that creates such high-toned and aromatic fruit. Second, this block is also located in
the warmest section on our estate. It is completely wind protected by our neighbor’s
property and thus has the best chance of accumulating ripeness in our harsh environment.
Yields were 3.2 lbs/plant (2.9 tons/acre). 67% of the fruit was gently de-stemmed with 33%
remaining as whole-clusters and was fermented in small 1.5 ton open-top fermenters. Total
skin and/or stem contact averaged 30 days (a 7 day cold soak, 2+ weeks fermentation and
1+ week extended maceration). From the press, the wine was transferred directly into 15%
French oak where it remained sur lie with no SO2 until May, and prepared for bottling.
15.2% alcohol.
tasting notes
A dark blue and red hue dominates the color of this wine. Aromatically intense with a urry
of black fruits such as currants, cherries and boysenberries. Earthy essences of pencil lead,
black pepper, tapenade, asphalt, dust, and co ee intermingle with sweet nuances of teriyaki,
dried apple, rose and cinnamon. On the palate it is rich, complex and sinister with much
underlying strength. While the wine o ers generous weight and mouth feel it still remains
elegant and balanced.
The structured, inky/purple-tinged 2006 Syrah Donna’s possesses the
classic hallmarks of a top-notch Syrah, including flower blossom,
blackberry, cassis, graphite, and earth characteristics along with
beautiful purity. It will benefit from 1-2 years of bottle age, and will
be drinkable over the following 7-8 years.
From one of the Santa Rita Hills’ superb vineyard sites, the Melville wines are made by Greg Brewer.
92 Points by Robert Parker
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