2010 Saxum, James Berry, Paso Robles, Bottle (750ml)

JD97 "Sporting a vibrant ruby, semi-opaque color, the 2010 Saxum James Berry Vineyard is the most tight, backwards version of this cuvee that I can recall. A blend of 52% Grenache, 26% Mourvedre, and 22% Syrah, it has a decidedly savory bouquet of blackberry liqueur, kirsch, violets, bouquet garni, ground pepper, and graphite. Full-bodied and layered on the palate, with brilliant mid-palate concentration, superb freshness, and masses of tannin, this brilliant Rhône blend from Paso Robles will stand toe to toe with the best wines out there, but it is not for those seeking instant gratification and will require 4-5 years of bottle age. In 2010, the Grenache component was aged in a combination of concrete tank and oak puncheons, and this change shows in both the aromatics and texture, with less obvious sweetness and more freshness. It will evolve gracefully for two decades." JD Dec 2012

AG96+ "Sporting a vibrant ruby, semi-opaque color, the 2010 Saxum James Berry Vineyard is the most tight, backwards version of this cuvee that I can recall. A blend of 52% Grenache, 26% Mourvedre, and 22% Syrah, it has a decidedly savory bouquet of blackberry liqueur, kirsch, violets, bouquet garni, ground pepper, and graphite. Full-bodied and layered on the palate, with brilliant mid-palate concentration, superb freshness, and masses of tannin, this brilliant Rhône blend from Paso Robles will stand toe to toe with the best wines out there, but it is not for those seeking instant gratification and will require 4-5 years of bottle age. In 2010, the Grenache component was aged in a combination of concrete tank and oak puncheons, and this change shows in both the aromatics and texture, with less obvious sweetness and more freshness. It will evolve gracefully for two decades." AG for VM Jul 2013