The 2005 Syrah Obsidian Vineyard is from Knight's Valley. This is steep hillside vineyard stuff with a dense dark purple color a phenomenally rich nose of brioche acacia flowers blackberry and blueberry jam intermixed with some white chocolate and perhaps hints of fig and truffle. The wine is spicy full-bodied incredibly opulent and thick even unctuously textured with great purity and richness. Moreover the glycerin and viscosity cover up some huge tannins. This is an amazingly big thick wine but it still cascades over the palate like a waterfall. This wine should come into its own in several years and drink well for 10-15. Exciting wines seem to emerge annually from Pax Mahle a self-trained winemaker (and all the better for it) and owner Joe Donelan. The 2005s are just hitting the shelf and there are some sensational ones for sure. Tel. (707) 591-0782; Fax (707) 591-0784