Praise for Pazzo
2004
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate Dec 2006 Rating 90 Drink 2006-2010
The 2004 Pazzo, a gorgeous blend of 64% Sangiovese and the rest Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petite Sirah, Syrah, Viognier, Zinfandel, and Charbono, is one of those wines that you wish every bistro and restaurant offered. A deep ruby color is accompanied by a sweet perfume of herbs, kirsch, spice, pepper, and earth. Supple-textured, seductive, and ripe, with decent acidity as well as loads of fruit and character, it admirably demonstrates what can be achieved by smart blending. It's too bad so many California wineries are obsessed with varietal bottlings. There are 3,000 cases of this beauty, which should continue to drink well for another 3-4 years.
2003
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate Dec 2005 Rating 91 Drink 2005-2009
This innovative effort from Claus Janzen is made with the assistance of Nils Venge's winemaker son, Kirk Venge. The 2003 Pazzo is an undeniably delicious, hedonistically styled red made from a blend of 66% Sangiovese, and the rest Cabernet Sauvignon, Petite Sirah, and a touch of Viognier. An evolved garnet color is followed by explosive aromas of dried herbs, strawberry liqueur, cherries, spice, pepper, and a hint of new saddle leather. With superb fruit, a lush, round attack and mid-section, and a heady finish, this is a complex California red to enjoy now and over the next 3-4 years.
