94+
Jeb Dunnuck - The Rhone Report
"The 2009 Donelan Syrah Walker Vine Hill is 100% Syrah that's fermented with 35% whole cluster and aged 18 months in 30% new French oak. Quite ripe and upfront on the nose, with loads of blackberry, cassis, wild herbs, flowers, and smoked meat characteristics, the wine is medium to full-bodied on the palate and richly textured, showing a fleshy, full mid-palate, solid balance, and a finish that dishes out loads of fruit that partially conceals a substantial amount of ripe, polished tannin. While there's real ripeness and weight to the texture, this still maintains an overall sense of balance and elegance. It also held up beautifully to air, showing well even on the third day after opening. While there's plenty of fruit here, as well as some upfront appeal, this will benefit from 2-4 years in the cellar and have at least 10-12 years of prime time drinking."
92-94 Robert Parker
"The 2009 Syrah Walker Vine Hill is a more austere and structured, but less exuberant offering than previous examples. A dense ruby/purple color is followed by copious aromas of blueberries, black cherries, cassis and camphor as well as the tell-tale meaty notes that are usually a part of the Donelan wines. While there is lots of texture, this Syrah is tightly knit with serious tannin levels in the finish. At present, it is broodingly backward and unevolved. This is a 100% Syrah with 35% stems that will ultimately be aged 18 months in 35% new French barrels and bottled unfiltered."
