Donnachadh Family Vineyards Estate Rose of Syrah, Sta Rita Hills, California

The 2025 Donnachadh Family Vineyards Estate Rosé of Syrah is a beautifully poised expression of Sta. Rita Hills combines the bright energy of a cool-climate rosé with the subtle complexity that Syrah brings to the glass. Crafted entirely from certified organic estate fruit, this limited-production wine showcases the maritime influence, mineral-rich soils, and slow ripening conditions that define one of California's most distinctive winegrowing regions. Fresh, textured, and effortlessly elegant, it captures both the purity of the vineyard and the thoughtful restraint of its winemaking.

Product Details:

• Owners: Drew and Laurie Duncan
• Winemaker: Ernst Storm
• Grapes: 100% Syrah
• Farming: Certified Organic
• Vineyard: 100% Estate-grown fruit from Donnachadh Vineyard
• Harvest: Whole-cluster pressed; harvested in late October
• Fermentation: Stainless steel
• Aging: 5 months on fine lees in stainless steel
• Production: 150 cases
• ABV: 12.5%

Sensory Description:

Shimmering salmon with delicate rose-gold highlights, the nose is lifted and expressive with aromas of orange blossom, jasmine, fresh strawberries, red apple, and a subtle touch of white pepper that hints at its Syrah origins. The palate is vibrant and mineral-driven, balancing juicy berry fruit with creamy lees-derived texture reminiscent of strawberries and cream. Crisp acidity and a distinct saline thread, born of the Sta. Rita Hills' cool Pacific influence carries through a long, refreshing finish accented by lingering watermelon and citrus notes.

Winemaker’s Background:

Founded by Drew and Laurie Duncan, Donnachadh Family Vineyards is a family-owned estate nestled on Santa Rosa Road in California's Sta. Rita Hills AVA. Inspired by the great wines of Burgundy and the Northern Rhône, the Duncans planted their organically farmed vineyard in 2013 after carefully selecting a site that combines cool ocean breezes, morning fog, and diverse soils of marine shale, sandy loam, and river gravels. Working alongside winemaker Ernst Storm, the team crafts wines that express the vineyard's distinctive maritime character through minimal intervention, natural freshness, and remarkable site transparency.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve well chilled at 8 to 10°C in a medium-sized white wine or rosé glass. Pair with grilled prawns, salmon crudo, tuna tartare, roast chicken, watermelon and feta salad, goat cheese, sushi, or Mediterranean vegetable dishes.