2007 Pax Syrah Griffin's Lair

The 2007 Pax Cellars Syrah Griffin’s Lair is a smoky, meaty offering that makes one think they are standing in the middle of a Texas barbecue pit. Copious notes of spice, pepper, meat juices, bouquet garni, and smoke drift past the olfactory senses and over the palate. Full-bodied, edgy, and grippy with high tannins as well as enormous richness and potential, it demands 2-3 years of cellaring, and should drink well over the following 12-15 years. 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) 592-0782; Fax (707) 591-0784