2005 Pax Syrah Majik Vineyard
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Tasting notes
The 2005 Syrah Majik Vineyard is a dead ringer for a French Crozes-Hermitage. Smoky, gamey tapenade and other black notes are present in this wine, which has a certain austerity, medium body, and an angular finish. The wine is excellent but hardly inspiring, but those looking for low-alcohol Syrahs will be pleased to know it is among the lowest ever made at Pax, well under 13%. 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
Opaque purple. Explosively aromatic aromas of red and dark berries complicated by strong graphite and iron notes and intense florality. Brilliant raspberry and blueberry flavors are deep and concentrated but also energized by vibrant minerality and framed by fine-grained tannins. Really gorgeous syrah with vivid Northern Rhone character and a sweet, remarkably long finish. One of the most striking wines of my trip-and the alcohol is a shockingly low 11.5%!.