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.Tel. (805) 735-7030; fax (805) 735-5310

Full-bodied, dry and complex, with spicy, stem-infused herb and earthy textures and flavors covering the underlying notes of blackberries, plums, raw meat, anise and smoke. Distinctive and compelling, and the considerable tannins strongly suggest aging. Now-2014.——S.H.(11/1/2009)—— 93