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2017 Melville Donna's Estate Syrah

Not Currently In Auction

Latest Sale Price

March 26, 2023 - $67

Estimate

RATINGS

97Wine Enthusiast

Aromas of wild peppercorn husks, dewy pepper trees, freshly rinsed ashtray and singed black plum draw in the nose. The palate continues the uniquely elegant ride into bay leaf, green peppercorn, espresso dust and Ruby Red fruit flavors that pop through the cracked pepper.

95Vinous / IWC

...simply fabulous...remarkable for many reasons, most notably its translucent sense of elegance and finesse. The 100% whole clusters are impeccably balanced... Hints of lavender, sage and mint open up in the glass,

95Jeb Dunnuck

It offers a wonderful bouquet of blackberries, plums, curing spices, olives, lavender, and violets. It's not the biggest, richest example of this cuvée, but it's still full-bodied and has a terrific sense of purity, a sexy texture, and a great finish.

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.