Donelan Cuvée Keltie Syrah 2017

A barrel selection from multiple Vineyards, the 2017 Syrah Cuvee Keltie was not destemmed and was brought up all in neutral oak. It’s always one of the gems in the lineup, and the 2017 is a rich, powerful, yet clearly cool-climate inspired Syrah offering a thrilling bouquet of blackberries, roasted herbs, cured meats, saddle leather, and ground pepper. Built for the long haul, it’s medium to full-bodied and has terrific concentration and mid-palate depth, lots of ripe tannins, and a great, great finish. Do your best to hide bottles for a solid 3-4 years if possible, and it should see its 20th birthday in fine form. Maturity: 2024-2038. Score – 97. (jebdunnuck.com, July 22, 2021)