2004 A Donkey and Goat 2004 Syrah Carson Ridge El Dorado

Much more fragrant. Great bright red fruits abound. Medium dark color. A more forward type of Syrah than the Kunin. The palate revealed dark cocoa, cinnamon, red raspberries, slight blueberry and tar. A medium to high weight Syrah and a more ‘in your face’ wine, this had great body, maybe a little short on the finish though. Initially I enjoyed this quality, but in the long run, the Kunin won out for me. 90/100

2004 Kunin Syrah – Santa Barbara

Double decanted ½ the bottle 2 hours earlier. Wonderful dark brooding color. The nose is a bit restrained, but opened up nicely with some air. A nose of great raspberry, blueberry, anise, and a slight hint of cassis. Wonderful medium balance. Great mouthfeel, again the raspberry out front, followed by the blueberry and cassis once again. Also evident were some violets and coffee. This is a very pretty feminine style Syrah that will please for a few more years. Not a very tannic style Syrah, more cool climate in profile. A nice long finish completed this nicely. Thanks to Seth Kunin for sending it to us for trying. We will do the 2001 (also sent) next time…. 92/100

2003 PAX Syrah Cuvee Keltie

This was the bigger styled Syrah on the table…No surprise. Great Blue and red fruit medley of Cherries, Blueberries, violets, bacon fat, white pepper, and soy. This screamed decant. This evolved nicely after an hour and a half. Super structured with a slightly elevated acid level, the tannins were in ‘da house. Some sensed heat, I did not. This showed nicely. A decent finish. This will be a real treat in about 2 years. I always say PAX does best after 5 or 6 years in the bottle. 91/100