The AllMusic review by Scott Yanow awarded the album 3 stars stating "Although there is not much variety in mood, it is a pleasure to hear Cherry stretching out a bit on trumpet (leaving his flute at home) this late in his career".

[2] The authors of The Penguin Guide to Jazz Recordings wrote: "There are sparks of brilliance here, but they are lost in ashpits of compromise."

However, they noted: "The sound is magnificent, and Stenson demonstrates once again what a superbly responsive player he is, and Åberg amply justifies his shared credit.

"[3] Writer Michael Stephans described the album as "a beautifully wrought project," and commented: "the music ... is rather pensive throughout, but showcases [Cherry's] lyrical quality... the moods and themes... are perhaps fitting in their expansive serenity, given that it was essentially Don Cherry's final recording as a leader.

"[4] Tyran Grillo, writing for Between Sound and Space, called Dona Nostra "An album of incredible subtlety to be savored.