2021 Pax Wines “Alta Monte” Gamay, Sonoma, USA

After years as a sommelier and wine buyer on the US east coast, Pax and his wife Pam moved to California in 1997 to pursue his dream. Pax Mahle’s vibrant, spicy Syrah’s and fresh Gamay were some of the stars of last year’s Wines of the USA tasting, and we expect no difference this year. Full of bright aromas, supple tone and sinew, Mahle’s wines, drawn from a variety of outstanding vineyards, fuse purity of fruit and expression of place to sit alongside the world’s very best examples.  Why do we like it? Fermented in the style of Beaujolais, this saw 100% whole bunches and was then aged in neutral French puncheons for 10 months. It’s a delightful and lip-smacking rendition of the grape, with spicy red fruit, impressive focus and fine length. Red fruits, roses and a touch of fine vanilla note. Grape            Gamay Country        USA                                  Region          Sonoma                           Vintage         2021