2021 Saxum White James Berry Vineyard
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Tasting notes
A brilliant white, the 2021 James Berry Vineyard White (mostly Grenache Blanc but including smaller amounts of Roussanne and Chenin Blanc) has a medium gold hue to go with concentrated, powerful aromatics of ripe stone fruits, honeyed peach, toasted almond, and chalky minerality. It's a rich, medium to full-bodied white that has beautiful overall balance, integrated acidity, and a great finish. You could safely put this up with the top whites from the Southern Rhône and it will do just fine.
Critic scores
Average Score
Jeb Dunnuck
Eric Guido, Vinous
More reviews and scores
The 2021 White James Berry Vineyard is a model of refinement, blending dusty florals with yellow apples, chamomile and hints of confectionary spice. It’s silky-smooth with a supple feel and crisp orchard fruits as a saline tinge adds a crunchy sensation toward the close. This finishes with outstanding length and a lemony concentration while leaving a fine coating of crisp tannins. This is simply fantastic and yet another example of the height that Grenache Blanc can reach in Paso Robles. It’s a blend of 62% Grenache Blanc, 18% Roussanne, 14% Chenin Blanc and 6% Chardonnay.
A blend of 44% Grenache Blanc, 29% Roussanne, 20% Chenin Blanc and 7% Chardonnay, the 2021 James Berry Vineyard White spent 22 months in predominately new 600-liter puncheons and a small amount in new 228-liter barrique. The nose is impressively powerful yet refreshingly precise and energetic, combining waxy, rich orchard fruit aromas with dried herbs and flower notes. The palate is creamy, broad and full-bodied in its attack, maintaining a thick, oily texture framed with upright acidity. The finish is equal parts decadent and vibrant, concluding on a structured, sturdy note with good length and increased depth and dimension with air.
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.