Pax Sonoma Coast Syrah 2023

Vin Chicago: 91 Points

(12/2025) Hundred-point Syrah specialist Pax Mahle has dialed-in an almost impossible-to-imitate style of vivacious, high-toned, low-ABV (12.5%) Syrah that's a delicious ode to the Northern Rhône. Explosive aromatics include Syrah's telltale smoky pepperiness with enough wild herbal qualities to also act as a framed love letter to Loire Valley Cabernet Franc and Spanish Mencia. Crushed blue flowers, green peppercorn, grape stems, blackberry, tea tree oil, olive, iron and crushed stone conspire with fresh thyme, lemon leaf, teriyaki jerky, spruce forest and allspice to create an experience that is wild, savory and invigorating. Pair with lamb kabob, roasted tomatoes and peppers, steak au poivre or black lentils with mint and sesame oil and the combo will be sublime. Amazing value for a Pax Syrah, it's rare for a charismatic, cool-climate, small-batch wine like this to exist for such a good price!