98pts & #15 Top 100 of 2025 Vinous

The 2023 Syrah Sonoma Hillsides is one of the greatest wines I have tasted from Pax Mahle. The Hillsides is a blend of the best sites in the range, fermented in cement with whole clusters and also aged in cement. The long growing season resulted in a rich, heady wine with intense fruit and perfectly ripe tannins. Magnificent.

97pts Jeb Dunnuck

The 2023 Syrah Sonoma-Hillsides is a blend from the best parts of their vineyard sites, fermented and aged in concrete, with the only oak it sees coming from portions of the barrels of the vineyard designates. In the glass, it pours a deep purple color, revealing aromas of lavender oils, blackberry preserve, and sweet sage. At this tasting, the focus is more on its fruit than its savory tones, but these will undoubtedly emerge as it matures. It has a rich and noble structure, with full body, ripe tannins, and a long-lasting finish.

96pts James Suckling

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.

92pts Wine Advocate

The 2023 Syrah Sonoma Hillsides was made with whole clusters and fermented and matured in concrete. It has slowly opening scents of cassis, thyme, violet and iodine. The medium-bodied palate features understated flavors framed by chalky tannins and bright acidity, and it has a long, floral finish.

Winemaker Notes

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.