2001 Pax Syrah, Russian River Valley Castelli-Knight Ranch

Planted in shallow orange clay, on a very steep northeast facing hillside, we lease this vineyard by the acre, and control every aspect of the farming. This iron rich, 4 acre planting produced a wine reminiscent of an old world Syrah, with the ripeness that one would expect from a California Syrah. The indigenous fermentations, use of whole clusters, and minimal handling really allow this wine to show its true varietal character.

Tasting Note:
Iron, wild blackberries and intense spice create the compelling aromatics that carry through in the mouth and throughout the finish. Medium bodied and chewy, the roasted fruit flavors and spice are mere accents to the minerality and earth driven flavor profile. As the wine sits in the glass sauvage aromas of game and meat emerge accented by Syrahs telltale pepper aroma.