Saxum Vineyards
James Berry Vineyard Syrah
Paso Robles, Central Coast, California, USA
Bravo Mr Smith and company.
Bravo Mr Smith and company.
Mar 13th, 2016
Saxum James Berry Vineyard 2022
Paso Robles – Willow Creek District, California USA 🇺🇸
Overview
A powerful, high-octane Rhône-inspired blend driven by Grenache 48%, supported by Mourvèdre / Mataro 34%, Syrah 8%, Counoise 8%, and Carignan 2%, clocking in at a formidable 15.7% ABV. This is an unapologetically bold, savory, and densely structured wine built on concentration, extraction, and muscular tannins rather than finesse or freshness. The warmth and sheer intensity dominate the profile, making this a statement wine that clearly favors power-seekers over balance-driven palates.
Aromas & Flavors
Dark red and black fruit compote, roasted herbs, cured meat, dried Mediterranean spices, and earthy savory tones lead the nose. On the palate, dense blackberry, plum reduction, and baked cherry collide with pepper, leather, and umami notes, finishing with pronounced alcohol warmth and firm structural grip.
Mouthfeel
Full-bodied, dense, and firmly tannic with noticeable heat on the finish. The texture is packed and chewy rather than lifted or agile, delivering weight and intensity over elegance or precision.
Food Pairings
Slow-braised short ribs. Charcoal-grilled lamb. Smoked brisket. Rich game meats. Hard aged cheeses. Best enjoyed with substantial, protein-driven dishes to balance the wine’s power.
Verdict
An impressive example of Paso Robles muscle and concentration, but stylistically far from my personal preference. The elevated alcohol and bold extraction make this more overwhelming than pleasurable for my palate, despite the quality of fruit and craftsmanship. A wine that will thrill lovers of massive, savory, high-impact reds.
Did You Know?
James Berry Vineyard in the Willow Creek District sits on steep, rocky limestone soils, producing naturally low yields and highly concentrated fruit, a major reason Saxum wines are known for their intensity, structure, and cult following.
🍷 Personal Pick
While undeniably well made, this style is simply too warm and forceful for my palate. I personally gravitate toward wines with greater tension, freshness, and drinkability rather than sheer power.
Saxum James Berry Vineyard 2022
Paso Robles – Willow Creek District, California USA 🇺🇸
Overview
A powerful, high-octane Rhône-inspired blend driven by Grenache 48%, supported by Mourvèdre / Mataro 34%, Syrah 8%, Counoise 8%, and Carignan 2%, clocking in at a formidable 15.7% ABV. This is an unapologetically bold, savory, and densely structured wine built on concentration, extraction, and muscular tannins rather than finesse or freshness. The warmth and sheer intensity dominate the profile, making this a statement wine that clearly favors power-seekers over balance-driven palates.
Aromas & Flavors
Dark red and black fruit compote, roasted herbs, cured meat, dried Mediterranean spices, and earthy savory tones lead the nose. On the palate, dense blackberry, plum reduction, and baked cherry collide with pepper, leather, and umami notes, finishing with pronounced alcohol warmth and firm structural grip.
Mouthfeel
Full-bodied, dense, and firmly tannic with noticeable heat on the finish. The texture is packed and chewy rather than lifted or agile, delivering weight and intensity over elegance or precision.
Food Pairings
Slow-braised short ribs. Charcoal-grilled lamb. Smoked brisket. Rich game meats. Hard aged cheeses. Best enjoyed with substantial, protein-driven dishes to balance the wine’s power.
Verdict
An impressive example of Paso Robles muscle and concentration, but stylistically far from my personal preference. The elevated alcohol and bold extraction make this more overwhelming than pleasurable for my palate, despite the quality of fruit and craftsmanship. A wine that will thrill lovers of massive, savory, high-impact reds.
Did You Know?
James Berry Vineyard in the Willow Creek District sits on steep, rocky limestone soils, producing naturally low yields and highly concentrated fruit, a major reason Saxum wines are known for their intensity, structure, and cult following.
🍷 Personal Pick
While undeniably well made, this style is simply too warm and forceful for my palate. I personally gravitate toward wines with greater tension, freshness, and drinkability rather than sheer power.
2007 vintage. Substantial and still kicking like a mule. 05.05.25.
2007 vintage. Substantial and still kicking like a mule. 05.05.25.
May 6th, 2025
Started with light scents of lilac. As the wine warmed up (it’s damn cold here), a nose of bright cherry cola developed. The mid-palate has evolved into red fruit, vanilla and softened tannins. Very velvety and plush-what my friend would call “slutty”. Awesome match for a big porterhouse. #saxumvineyards
Started with light scents of lilac. As the wine warmed up (it’s damn cold here), a nose of bright cherry cola developed. The mid-palate has evolved into red fruit, vanilla and softened tannins. Very velvety and plush-what my friend would call “slutty”. Awesome match for a big porterhouse. #saxumvineyards
Feb 12th, 2021
Cracking open a bottle to celebrate the life and memories after the passing of our beloved Frenchie, Miki. RIP, you will be sorely missed
Cracking open a bottle to celebrate the life and memories after the passing of our beloved Frenchie, Miki. RIP, you will be sorely missed
Sep 17th, 2020
Really well made, but a bit young. Give it maybe two more years to soften out.
Really well made, but a bit young. Give it maybe two more years to soften out.
Sep 30th, 2017
Big and bright. Plummy, berry goodness. This Paso Rhone will be long lasting but it is great now. Couldn't wait to try it.
Big and bright. Plummy, berry goodness. This Paso Rhone will be long lasting but it is great now. Couldn't wait to try it.
Mar 31st, 2016