Tasting Notes:
97 Points Jeb Dunnuck:
“The Saxum 2022 James Berry Vineyard White is cut from the same cloth, with perhaps a touch more freshness and liveliness. White peach, quince, honeyed flowers, and minty spice notes all define the aromatics, and it’s medium to full-bodied, has a pure, layered, elegant mouthfeel, terrific precision and focus, and a great finish. The 2022 is 62% Grenache Blanc, 18% Roussanne, 14% Chenin Blanc, and 6% Chardonnay, fermented in a mix of concrete, oak, and stainless steel, and aged 22 months in 82% new barrels. It’s Paso Robles answer to a great Châteauneuf du Pape Blanc from the likes of Beaucastel or Janasse!”
95 points Wine Advocate
The James Berry Vineyard White is a blend of 62% Grenache Blanc, 18% Roussanne, 14% Chenin Blanc and 6% Chardonnay fermented in 82% new 600-liter barrels and aged for 22 months. The nose is honeyed, weighty and lumbering, opening with commanding aromas of orange oil, ripe stone fruit, tangerine and nectarine with crushed rock and dried spice accents. The palate is refreshingly svelte, energetic and succulent, with linear precision and a subtle calcareous texture running through the long, tangy, structured finish. A beautiful combination of serious power and admirable focus, this should be a pleasure to watch develop over the coming decade.
Cult Wines International Notes:
Saxum Vineyards stands out among Paso Robles producers, crafting powerful yet refined Rhône-style wines. While many in the region chase bold fruit, Saxum achieves opulence and complexity with remarkable balance and elegance. Winemaker Justin Smith’s influence is undeniable, having mentored many of the region’s top winemakers.
James Berry Vineyard: The Heart of Saxum
The estate’s centerpiece, James Berry Vineyard, spans three hilltops at elevations ranging from 1,100 to 1,300 feet. The oldest section, Hexe, dates back to 1980, with subsequent plantings in the early 1990s and 2000s. Organic farming practices have been employed since the mid-2000s, with a growing emphasis on regenerative viticulture. Grenache dominates the vineyard, with Mataro gaining prominence due to its resilience in warming conditions. Graciano contributes vibrant acidity, while Syrah provides captivating savory aromas.
Winemaking Philosophy: Elegance in Power
At the winery, grapes are fermented as whole clusters with minimal intervention. Natural fermentations are encouraged, with careful temperature control. Co-fermentations are increasingly employed to balance ripeness variations. After basket pressing, the wines undergo extended lees aging in a variety of vessels, including large barrels, foudre, and concrete amphora. Despite high alcohol levels, the wines maintain remarkable harmony, showcasing a balance of power and finesse.
Bottle Size:
750 mL
Storage History:
Always stored properly in a climate controlled cellar.
Condition:
Perfect
