2002 Pax Syrah Cuvée Keltie
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(a blend of numerous elements, in what Mahle describes as an Hermitage style; fermented entirely with whole clusters and aged in a very low percentage of new barrels) Saturated black-ruby color. Knockout nose combines crushed dark berries, bitter chocolate, licorice and fresh herbs. Creamy, superconcentrated and deep; fills the mouth and then some. A syrah of compelling sweetness and length. Finishes with huge, dusty, building tannins and a strong peppery aspect. This needs a good three or four years of additional cellaring.
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Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
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A limited cuvee (207 cases) is the 2002 Syrah Cuvee Keltie. The tightest offering in this portfolio, it is Hermitage-like in its proportions, restraint, and intense earthiness/minerality. An opaque purple color is accompanied by scents of ground pepper, roasted espresso, blackberries, and cassis. When Pax Mahle told me that 100% stems were used in this cuvee, I was astonished because there is not a bit of stemmy/vegetal character. This tight, formidably endowed Syrah is best treated like a great French Hermitage ... wait 6-8 years and drink it over the following two decades. This is a very exciting operation run by one of northern California’s new young turks, who is proving to have a formidable ability to translate cool climate vineyard sites into terrific wines ... all with no formal training. (Release date Spring 04) Tel. (707) 591-0782; Fax (707) 591-0784