Pax Syrah Sonoma-Hillsides 2023
This is quite the profound and present Syrah and shows the continued excellence that Pax brings to his work with Syrah. The nose opens with violets, black cherry, cola, savory herbs, and black olives. The palate has a tremendous presence to it with black fruits, fresh and dried flowers, herbs, cola and a touch of earth. This is frankly delicious, if now still young, Syrah. Drink through at least 2040 with kebabs. - D&M TASTING NOTES (MK, 01/2026)
CRITICAL ACCLAIM:
"The 2023 Syrah Sonoma Hillsides is one of the most elegant, refined renditions of this wine I have tasted. Crushed rose petal, mint, lavender and dried herbs soar out of the glass. The purity of the flavors here is just remarkable. Vibrant and deep, with tremendous energy, the 2023 Sonoma Hillsides is showing exceptionally well today." - 98 PTS, ANTONIO GALLONI, VINOUS MEDIA (01/2026)
"#35 Top Wines of the USA 2025: Very pure and perfumed aromas of blackberries, dark cherries, plums, cured meat, dried herbs and violets. The palate is supple, with seamlessly integrated tannins and bright acidity, giving flavors of mulberries, graphite, black olives and mocha. A serious northern Rhone-inspired syrah with a soft touch. Excellent. Drink or hold." - 96 PTS, JAMES SUCKLING (02/2025)
PRODUCER NOTES:
OVERVIEW: “Inspired by the Syrah based wines chiseled from the slopes of St Joseph, this 100% Syrah is becoming a reference point of its own for Syrah in the new world. Just like in St Joseph, we pulled this blend together from multiple sites and utilized the most interesting expositions of these meticulously cared for vineyards. Hillsides that show the freshness and vibrancy that Syrah can only achieve on cool-climate slopes. Blended together in cubic concrete vats, this wine is the epitome of density, finesse, style and deliciousness. This wine eschews the standard run-of-the-mill Syrah tropes, shapeless with blubber, oak and extraction that many people wrongly confuse with quality. This is pure Syrah at its finest.”
TASTING: “Deep, inky purple hue, indicative of its concentration and intensity. Crazy aromatics with notes of sweet purple flowers, pink peppercorns, and blueberry liqueur. Hints of white pepper and exotic, high-toned fruit pastilles add layers of complexity. On the palate, the wine is medium to full-bodied with a plush texture. Flavors of ripe blue fruits, such as blueberry and blackberry, are prominent, complemented by spicy nuances and high-toned red fruits. The palate also reveals swirling aromas of earth, umami, and fresh summer fruits, contributing to its depth and vibrancy. The finish is long and persistent, with fine, chalky tannins and bright acidity providing structure and balance. A touch of salinity enhances its mouthwatering quality, inviting another sip.”