Donelan: A Family Affair
Donelan Wines is a family winery that takes great pride in delivering quality wines for your drinking pleasure. The venture began back in 2000 under the name of Pax wine. I originally joined the mailing list after visiting the industrial setting winery for a tasting. Their Syrahs were getting high marks from reviewers, and that always peaks my curiosity. I am not one to take it solely on a critic’s review and need to try the wine firsthand. The wines were wonderful then, and they continue to deliver with every year.
This is a working winery located in Santa Rosa. It is situated in an industrial setting that is home to several smaller wineries. The driving force in the winery is Joe Donelan. It is his vision and passion that set the stage for these winning wines. Joe has been quoted as stating that quality is the most important goal with every vintage. The scores and accolades the wines receive demonstrate his commitment. He is supported full time by his two sons, Tripp and Cushing. Tripp is the Director of Sales, and Cushing is the Director of Marketing. This is what really makes it a family affair.
Donelan Family Wines opens their doors to visitors by appointment only. The wines are plush, balanced and well crafted. After my first visit I became a fan. They make a wide portfolio that today includes Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Viognier, Syrah and Rhone blends. To say the least, there is something for everyone.
The most recent event that we attended was their Open House. This was an opportunity to attend a seminar led by their winemaker Joe Nielsen and take a journey through their four Syrahs. It is not often you get the chance to take a “tour” with the winemaker and learn what contributes to the quality of their wine. What followed that was lunch and tasting through more of the wide portfolio of wines that paired well with the lovely lunch served by Sonoma’s own ‘Girl and the Fig’ Restaurant. This was truly a great afternoon.
Donelan Family Wines is a small family-owned winery that has carried the commitment to quality through vintage after vintage. Their wines deliver fresh, rich flavors that will please year after year. I highly recommend a visit to explore and enjoy their wines.
Enjoy!
