by Andrew Chalk
Donum has a thoroughly deserved reputation as a producer of Carneros pinot noir but this is the first rosé expression of the grape from them that I have tried. As I might have expected, it was as elegant and well-made as their red wines.
The winery explains on the back label that they reserve one block of their estate vineyard for rosé. This year is the winery’s 20th anniversary.
Notes from the winery state “Pale in color with an expressive nose, the wine offers scents of apricot, strawberry, lime, and mint. The palate is bright and intense, with cherry, apple and lemon joined by pie crust and a hint of graphite. The finish leaves a lingering impression of fresh peach and a slightly saline quality. The Rosé is available from the Donum website.
The unique artwork showcased on the label references Richard Hudson’s “Love Me,” a massive heart-shaped sculpture that presides over Donum’s Carneros Estate vineyards from the property’s highest point. Made in polished mirrored steel, the sculpture actively reflects the land and sky around it and invites its spectators to do the same. Much like the Donum Estate’s core values of connecting the wine, land, and art to create a global community, Hudson’s intention with “Love Me” is to show how interconnected our world is, with wonderment and beauty all around us.”
Sample