2005 Pax Syrah Lauterbach Hill
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Tasting notes
The fruit-forward 2005 Syrah Lauterbach is 100% Syrah with a dark ruby/purple color, beautiful density and ripeness, and sweet tannins in a velvety, up-front style. Some black raspberry as well as hints of lard and espresso roast are intermingled with the red and black fruits in this wine, which has a beautiful medium to full-bodied mouthfeel and a long finish. Drink it over the next 5-6 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
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
Inky violet. Lush and inviting, with ripe boysenberry and blackberry aromas and a bright mineral overlay. Broad and fleshy, with deep dark fruit flavors, soft tannins and a suggestion of black cardamom. As round and supple as this is, there's good structure and focus here, with a gentle lift of acidity on the finish adding energy.