2008 Donelan Cuvée Moriah

The Donelan 2008 Cuvee Moriah is a blend of 65% Grenache and 35% Syrah. Tyler Thomas used most of the stems, just as Pax Mahle did in 2007. The 2008 exhibits a slightly darker color as well as loads of raspberry and kirsch notes intermixed with lavender, earth, pepper, and spice. It, too, should be consumed during its first 4-5 years of life. If the 2007 tastes like a high-class Cotes du Rhone, the 2008 resembles a Chateauneuf du Pape given its denser, fuller style. Both are beautiful efforts that tip the scale at 15+% alcohol. The troubled departure of Pax Mahle as winemaker from this operation owned primarily by Joe Donelan has resulted in a change of name. Coinciding with the 2008s, this is now Donelan Family Wines. The reviews that follow include the 2007s, the last wines produced under the Pax Cellars moniker, with the 2008s to be released under the Donelan Family Wines. Pax Mahle now has his own up-and-coming winery called Wind Gap. One of the most interesting vineyards Donelan has used is the Obsidian Vineyard in Knight’s Valley. This vineyard’s soil resembles black marble, and the result is an extraordinary wine with characteristics that are nearly impossible to articulate. Tel. ((707) 591-0782; Fax (707) 591-0784