We’ve covered Sonoma-based Donelan before, and today we turn to the winery’s 2011 vintage releases, all three of which have just been released. Thoughts follow.

2011 Donelan Pinot Noir Two Brothers North Coast – A dead solid Pinot from (all over) Northern California. Black cherry and rhubarb notes give way to spicy black pepper and fresh herbal notes. Lots going on here, with a very lightly sweet finish that adds curiosity. A- / $55

2011 Donelan Venus Sonoma County – A rarity, Roussanne from Sonoma (97%, with 3% Viognier). Fragrant with peach and vanilla notes, and rich in body like a Chardonnay. Chewy, almost chalky on the tongue at times, with a cantaloupe character on the finish. Food-friendly… and pricy. B+ / $45

2011 Donelan Chardonnay Nancie Sonoma County – Strange. Some unripe banana notes on the nose, with intense tropical character. Lightly herbal on the back end, all packed into a big, big body. Intriguing for Chardonnay but not overly easy-drinking. B+ / $45

donelanwines.com

2011 Donelan Pinot Noir Two Brothers North Coast

$55

9

Rating

9.0/10

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Christopher Null

Christopher Null is the founder and editor in chief of Drinkhacker. A veteran writer and journalist, he also operates Null Media, a bespoke content creation company.

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