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2018 Melville Donna's Estate Syrah

Not Currently In Auction

Latest Sale Price

December 31, 2023 - $40

Estimate

RATINGS

96Wine Enthusiast

Cracked black pepper, black currant and dark violet make for a cool-climate expression with tons of floral smoothness. There is heft to the sip, where black pepper, dried herbs and black fruits are sliced by a zesty acidity.

96+ Jeb Dunnuck

...nose of smoked black fruits, beef blood, ground pepper, crushed violets, and bacon fat. It's rich, full-bodied, concentrated, and beautifully balanced, with both tannins and acidity.

94Vinous / IWC

...complete, expressive wine...gorgeous aromatic breadth... Rose petal, lavender, spice, sweet dark cherry and star anise are some of the many notes that meld together in this wonderfully deep, nuanced Syrah from Melville. The 100% whole clusters are impeccably balanced.

REGION

United States, California, Central Coast, Santa Barbara County, Santa Rita Hills

Santa Rita Hills AVA in northern Santa Barbara County was granted appellation status in 2001. Located between the towns of Lompoc and Buellton, it has a total area of 30,720 acres with 2,700 vineyard acres. The area is considered a cool climate for vineyards, so vineyards are most often planted with the cool-weather grapes Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The hills in the western part of this appellation are directly exposed to the Pacific Ocean, meaning that maritime winds and fog make the western edge of the Santa Rita Hills AVA particularly cool. The Sanford & Benedict Vineyard planted in 1971 was the first vineyard in the district and is still considered one of the best.

TYPE

Red Wine, Syrah (Shiraz)

This grape is grown in milder climates and produces a medium-to full-bodied wine. It is also known as Shiraz, but should not be confused with Petit Sirah, which was developed by crossing Syrah with Peloursin.