2010 Donelan Family wines Cuvee Moriah Sonoma County 1x750ml

Vinous 88-90

Donelan’s 2010 Cuvee Moriah is a blend of 54% Grenache, 26% Mourvèdre and 20% Syrah fermented with 25-50% whole clusters depending on the variety. Mint, licorice, tar, smoke and blackberries are some of the notes that take shape in the glass as this intensely aromatic wine opens up in the glass. Today the tannins are a bit firm and I get a sense the fruit may not have achieved full ripeness. It will be interesting to see how the wine develops after bottling. [Antonio Galloni, 02/01/2012]

Anticipated maturity: 2014-2018

Robert Parker 89

Donelan’s 2010 Cuvee Moriah is a blend of 54% Grenache, 26% Mourvedre and 20% Syrah fermented with 25-50% whole clusters depending on the variety. Mint, licorice, tar, smoke and blackberries are some of the notes that take shape as this intensely aromatic wine opens up in the glass. Today the tannins are a bit firm, and I get a sense the fruit may not have achieved full ripeness. It will be interesting to see how the wine develops after bottling. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2018. Proprietor Joe Donelan and his winemaker Tyler Thomas share a passion for cool-climate marginal sites. Given the focus on sourcing from top vineyards, it is hardly a surprise that the vineyard-designates are the most exciting wines in this lineup. I have a harder time finding the same level of enthusiasm for the winery’s numerous blended cuvees, but these are all excellent to outstanding wines that merit serious attention. Tel. (707) 591-0782; www.donelanwines.com [29/02/2012]

Anticipated maturity: 2014-2018