Geoffrey Binder, JJ Buckley, November 2010

This incredibly aromatic syrah showcases an array of black and blue fruits, complemented by savory winter herbs, dried florals, tapenade, and a hint of tar. Dense and luscious on the palate, there is a lot of complexity here, finishing long with a dusting of baker's cocoa. Already enjoyable in its youth, this should knit together nicely with 1-2 years of aging and drink well for at least a decade.

91 points,

Rhone Report, The, November 2010

Aged in neutral wood and made with 20% whole cluster, the 2009 Melville Syrah Estate Verna's is a smooth, supple red, that shows fragrant raspberry and kirsch like fruits intermixed with spice, underbrush, and earthy nuances on the nose. These lead into a beautifully textured, medium to full bodied wine that possesses pure fruit, solid balance, and a delicious, drink me now personality. Drink this crowd pleaser over the next 3 to 4 years.

About Winery

In 1989, Melville Vineyards, a family owned and operated enterprise was founded in Sonoma County's Knights Valley, where Ron Melville grew high quality, much sought after Chardonnay, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon. In 1996, Ron's desire to grow Pinot Noir and Chardonnay brought Melville Vineyards to Lompoc's Sta. Rita Hills, located in the western Santa Ynez Valley of Santa Barbara County, California.

The Sta. Rita Hills appellation is where Ron Melville and his sons Brent and Chad Melville decided to develop their estate  vineyards and winery. All fruit for wine production is not only exclusively farmed and sourced from Melville Vineyards, but is also produced by Melville Winery. Since then, they have also developed an interest in Rhone varietals, particularly Northern Rhone Syrah and Viognier. The Melville estate achieves quality through the integrity of its farming practice and its respect to the microclimate.

The Melvilles believe that a fine wine begins in the terroir or microclimate of a vineyard.