2013 Bone Rock James Berry Vineyard Syrah
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Tasting notes
Flirting with perfection, the 2013 Syrah James Berry Vineyard Bone Rock is one of the wines of the vintage. Made from 80% Syrah, 10% Mourvedre and 5% each of Grenache and Roussanne, which saw a big chuck of whole clusters, it offers sensational aromas and flavors of black raspberries, violets, pepper and crushed rock that literally come leaping out of the glass. Full-bodied, seamless, elegant, yet concentrated and incredibly pure, with a finish that won't quit, this beauty will stand beside some of the greatest Hermitages out there. Give bottles 3-4 years and enjoy over the following 10-15 years. Unfortunately, due to ridiculously low yields, there won't be a Bone Rock released in 2014 or 2015, so don't miss this beauty!
Critic scores
Average Score
Josh Raynolds
Josh Raynolds
More reviews and scores
Glass-staining violet. Expansive aromas of smoke-tinged dark fruits, potpourri, allspice and minerals, along with a hint of white pepper that builds in the glass. Sappy, sweet and densely packed, offering palate-staining boysenberry and bitter cherry flavors given lift and spine by juicy acidity. Unfolds slowly on the penetrating, mineral-driven and insistent finish, which features building tannins and a whiplash of intense blue fruit.
Opaque purple. Blueberry compote and smoky Indian spices on the alluringly perfumed nose, complicated by notes of incense and licorice pastille. Deep, sappy and expansive, offering sweet, smooth flavors of black and blue fruit liqueur. Gains energy with aeration, finishing with sweet notes of candied dark berries and smooth, slow-building tannins.
About the producer
Founded in 2002 by Justin and Heather Smith, Saxum Vineyards is a leading Paso Robles producer of Rhône-inspired wines. Limited to around 8,000 cases annually, the range includes Broken Stones, James Berry Vineyard, Bone Rock and Rocket Block.