2005 Pax Syrah Griffin's Lair
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Tasting notes
The 2005 Syrah Griffin’s Lair, from a hillside Sonoma Coast site that is wind-swept, exhibits beautiful flowery bacon and lead pencil notes intermixed with some meat juices, blackberry, and cassis. The wine is full-bodied, rather opulent, fleshy, and mouthfilling with no hard edges, and should drink beautifully for 5-8 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
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
Inky ruby. Powerful, fruit-driven bouquet shows a wild, spicy red and dark berry quality, along with an exotic sandalwood tone. Lush, seamless and intensely red berry-flavored, with velvety texture and completely integrated tannins. A very suave, sexy syrah, finishing with persistent strawberry and powerful Asian spice character.