Saxum James Berry Vineyard 2010

Professional Ratings

• 97 Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
  Sporting a vibrant ruby, semi-opaque color, the 2010 James Berry Vineyard is the most tight, backward 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 Rhone 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 shows in both the aromatics and texture, with less obvious sweetness and more freshness. It will evolve gracefully for two decades.
• 94 Wine Spectator
  The intense, vivid blackberry, blueberry, pepper and spice notes are tightly focused and persistent in this red, ending with a long finish and tannins that give the flavors traction. Very pure and rambunctious, and should only get better with time. Grenache, Mourvèdre and Syrah. Best from 2014 through 2026.