Saxum Rocket Block James Berry Vineyard 2021

Incredible Châteauneuf du Pape-like notes of red and black fruits, peppery garrigue, leather, sandalwood, and graphite all soar from the 2021 Rocket Block, and this beauty hits the palate with full-bodied richness, a concentrated, layered, multi-dimensional mouthfeel, terrific mid-palate depth, and a great finish. This powerful, opulent yet flawlessly balanced beauty will evolve for 15+ years in cold cellars. All from the James Berry Vineyard, the blend is 70% Grenache, 15% Mataro, 11% Syrah, and 4% Counoise that was mostly destemmed and was aged 34 months in 32% new French 300-liter barrels.

Composed of 70% Grenache, 15% Mataro, 11% Syrah and 4% Counoise, the 2021 Rocket Block James Berry Vineyard was raised 32 months in 34% new 300-liter barrels and used foudre. The nose is herbal, dark-fruited and elegant despite the apparent power coiled inside it, showing off aromas of resinous herbs, amaro, fruitcake and dark spice accents. The palate is simply gigantic, pulling no punches in its decadent, powerful richness that perplexingly remains tensile, agile and deft. The finish is fabulously decadent, lined with fine yet grippy tannins and graceful, elegant fruit flavors that pull off a soft landing despite the seemingly endless concentration behind them. This is an excellent example of Saxum's ability to produce wines that are equal parts powerful, graceful and balanced.

The 2021 Rocket Block impresses with its lift and grace, displaying a dusting of sweet spice and dried flowers complemented by a hint of red currant. This is juicy and racy in style, with supple textures offset by mineral grip. Ripe red and black fruits penetrate the palate with primary concentration as a web of fine-grained tannins saturates the senses. The 2021 finishes tremendously long and floral, leaving behind a bitter tinge of tart blackberry. Patience is required.