Description
A step up over the Rocket Block and one of the finest 2020s out there, the 2020 Hexe is 51% Grenache, 17% Petite Sirah, and the rest Graciano and Mourvèdre, all from a single parcel of old vines in the James Berry Vineyard. Darker red and black fruits, smoked herbs, graphite, and spicy notes all dominate the bouquet, and it’s full-bodied, has terrific concentration, and ripe, polished tannins. It’s a gorgeous bottle of wine.
It’s so fun tasting this wine back to back with the Rocket…such different expressions of Grenache that are both tasty. This is definitely the dark side of Grenache. Black fruits and California sage, deep and dark, luscious. Unctuous bass. A finish that is a couple days long. (OK, maybe I exaggerate a little). 51% Grenache, 17% Petite Sirah, 11% Graciano, 10% Mataro, 7% Syrah, 4% Carignan. Rated 100 in 2019 and 2018, 2020 not yet rated.
Saxum Vineyards, a revered name in the world of fine wines, stands as a testament to the vision and dedication of its founder, Justin Smith. Nestled in the heart of Paso Robles, California, Saxum embodies a commitment to crafting exceptional wines that reflect the unique terroir of the region.
Justin’s journey into winemaking began in the early 2000s when he purchased a rugged plot of land on the renowned Willow Creek District of Paso Robles. Determined to create wines that would captivate the senses and elevate the standards of the industry, he painstakingly cultivated his vineyards, paying meticulous attention to every detail of the winemaking process.
Drawing inspiration from the rich winemaking traditions of both Old and New World techniques, Saxum Vineyards has carved a distinctive niche for itself, renowned for its small-lot, handcrafted wines that showcase the true essence of Paso Robles. From the rugged, calcareous soils to the cool ocean breezes that sweep through the vineyards, each bottle of Saxum wine tells a story of the land from which it originates.
With a portfolio that includes bold red varietals such as Syrah, Grenache, and Mourvèdre, Saxum has garnered widespread acclaim from critics and enthusiasts alike. Each vintage is a testament to Justin’s unwavering commitment to excellence, as he continues to push the boundaries of winemaking, constantly experimenting with new techniques and varietals to create wines of unparalleled complexity and depth.
Saxum Vineyards remains a family-owned and operated winery, with Justin and his dedicated team working tirelessly to ensure that each bottle that bears the Saxum name upholds the legacy of quality and craftsmanship that has become synonymous with the brand. As Saxum continues to garner accolades and accolades, it remains steadfast in its mission to produce wines that inspire, delight, and transport the senses to the rugged beauty of Paso Robles.
