Deep ruby core with lighter edges. Layered nose with note of pepper, fig, roses, plums, spices and licorice. Medium tannins (6.5/10) and medium plus bodied. Darker notes on the palate with black pepper, herbs, and juicy dark raspberries. Long finish and well balanced.

First winery on day two in Sonoma was Donelan Family Wines in Santa Rosa with Meredith. The next Rhone varietal red was the Cuvée Christine Syrah. Made up of 100% Syrah from the Kobler Family Vineyard in the Green Valley of Russian River Valley and the Lawyer Vineyard in Knight's Valley. Aged for 21 months in 33% new French oak barrels and 30% whole cluster. Only 634 cases produced.

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