2002 Pax Syrah, Sonoma Hillsides

Three exceptional Syrah vineyards have been utilized to create the foundation for this spectacular example of hillside grown California Syrah. Barrels culled from our vineyard designated program were utilized to add complexity and depth. We chose to co-ferment a portion of this Syrah with mountain grown Marsanne and Roussanne to soften the rustic mountain tannins and add dimension to the aromatics and texture, a lost practice borrowed from the fabled hill of Hermitage. In fact this wine reminds us of a ridiculously ripe Crozes-Hermitage.

Tasting Note:
Deeply concentrated layers of blackberry both in the nose and on the palate intermingle with smoke, licorice, dried flowers and wet stone. The attack is luscious and fleshy, but alive with sour cherries, tar and the slightest suggestion of mint with aeration.