Saxum Vineyards James Berry Vineyard Rocket Block, Paso Robles, USA 2019

Rocket Block is a particular Grenache block of James Berry Vineyard. We planted it in 1995 with the California selection of Grenache that goes by the handle Grenache 01. A very steep, North East facing slope that rises 100 feet in a short amount of time. The soil is rich, but rocky and well drained, and the exposure being away from the hot summer sun lets this block hang forever. It is almost always the last block we pick out of all our vineyards which allows for maximum hang time, and perfect fruit maturity. It is a wine that defies categorizing. On the one hand, it is loaded with ripe rich flavors, mouth coating and decadent. On the other hand, it is ethereal and light. Our wines are never racked off their lees and are bottled unfined and unfiltered.

NOTES FROM JUSTIN:

This is what Rocket Block is all about.... soaring red fruit aromatics, rich yet lively flavors, smooth long tannins. Rich without being heavy. Floral. One of the best wines I've ever made. These 2019 wines have a little something for everyone, which is
why I think I like them so much. Lifted, fresh aromatics of sage and spice and fruit. Along with lots of rich California fruit, deep textures, smooth tannins and lively acids that keep it all harmonizing so well. These days there are so many great wines
out there that have one or the other. Rich, smooth tannins, or fresh, spice/fruit driven aromatics. I find it rare to have both, and frankly, that's my holy grail. What really piques my interest.

" Another heavenly wine from this estate, the 2019 Rocket Block checks in as 70% Grenache, 19% Mataro, 7% Syrah, and 4% Counoise that spent 32 months in 48% new 300-liter barrels. A young baby of a wine, it has a mammoth-sized bouquet of red and black fruits, pepper, rare steak, white pepper, and iron that's to die for. Along with full-bodied richness, it has flawless balance, ripe, integrated tannins, no hard edges, and a great finish. It's beautifully done and needs to be forgotten for 3-4 years in the cellar and will see its 20th birthday in fine form. It reminds me slightly of the Not For You Châteauneuf du Pape cuvée from the Usseglio family." Jeb Dunnuck 98+