Reviews & Ratings

2010 Donelan Syrah & Shiraz (Other than French) "Obsidian Vineyard"

Winery: Donelan

Vintage: 2010

Wine Name/Vineyard: "Obsidian Vineyard"

Wine Category: Syrah & Shiraz (Other than French)

Grape blend: 100% Syrah

Bottle size: 750 ml

Region: Knights Valley

State or country: CA

Price: $90

Cases produced: 385

KWG Score: 93 (based on 3 reviews)

Ken's Wine Rating: Very Good+ (92)

Review date: March 28, 2013

Wine Review: This opaque and onyx colored Syrah opens with a cherry-cola like bouquet with a hint of oak and blueberry. On the palate, this wine is full bodied, balanced, and savory. The favor profile is a tasty mineral infused black currant with notes of black licorice, black raspberry, and oak. I also picked up a touch of black pepper. The finish is dry and its moderate tannins are nicely prolonged. This Syrah would pair well with a New York strip steak smothered with sauteed mushrooms and shallots. Enjoy - Ken

Winemaker Notes: We cannot think of another vineyard (besides maybe Richards) that is so driven by the environment the vines are planted in. The confluence of rocks, breezes, vine age, and the fact that few places like this in California are planted to Syrah truly results in a unique expression of Syrah. Like the 2009, the 2010 took time to reveal its aromas and only recently have things like tobacco, violet, licorice, cherries, and chocolate begun to emerge. Consistent with previous examples of Obisidan – confirming the power of the terroir - the palate is supple and incredibly structured. Fleshier than 2009, the 2010 still maintains strong scaffolding awaiting more development to fill out the wine. The finish is long, very long, and invites a meal with strong flavors and rich textures.

Buy it: Use 1000 Corks to find stores that sell Donelan 2010 Obsidian Syrah.