Lot #14 Donelan Family Wines

“The Dark Knights” pays tribute to the two inky grape varietals in this first-ever blend for Donelan Family Wines made from Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. The 2023 vintage is the Donelan Estate’s debut wine after replanting the vineyard. Great things are expected from these young vines that were propagated from the previous vineyard plantings, which date back to the late 1970s.

Knights Valley in Sonoma County is one of the most rugged, untamed, and breathtaking wine regions in California. Nestled between the Mayacamas Mountains, it has volcanic soils, high elevations, and a cooler climate, all of which create powerful yet elegant Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. The valley was named after Thomas Knight, a 19th century pioneer, which gives it a sense of history and adventure.

Winemaker David Milner ferments these small lots separately and ages each one differently, revealing spectacular wines that are filled with depth, elegance and power. “The Dark Knights” will be brawny, rich and decadent, like many great Cabernet Sauvignon wines. The Cabernet Franc will tame the big mountain structure and give it lift with aromatic herbs, white flowers and sage. It will have a fresh, beautifully saturated palate and fine-grained tannin.

WINEMAKER(S): David Milner

ESTIMATED BOTTLING DATE: June 2025
ESTIMATED SHIPPING DATE: December 2025

National Distribution: AL, CA, CT, FL, GA, HI, IL, MD, MA, MS, NV, NC, OH, TN, TX, UT, VA, WY, Washington, DC

International Distribution: Includes Canada, Japan; please inquire for additional countries.

A winemaker dinner or store visit is offered in your market as part of this lot. Must be scheduled on a mutually agreeable date.