2004 Pax Syrah Richards Family Vineyard

The only other Syrah I tasted at the winery (as there are certainly many more 2006s that weren’t ready for tasting) is the late-released 2004 Syrah Richards Family Vineyard, made from 100% whole clusters aged in 100% new oak for 36 months. There are only 165 cases of this prodigious Syrah. Sweet espresso intermixed with blackberry and cassis, truffle, lavender, and other floral and even exotic notes are present in this full-bodied, powerfully rich, and still remarkably fresh, unctuously-textured wine that just screams the word “hedonism.” Fabulously long, pure, and dense, this is a tour de force in winemaking and should drink well for at least 7-8 years. Exciting wines seem to emerge annually from Pax Mahle, a self-trained winemaker (and all the better for it), and owner Joe Donelan. The 2005s are just hitting the shelf, and there are some sensational ones for sure. Tel. (707) 591-0782; Fax (707) 591-0784