Saxum Vineyards is located in the Paso Robles AVA of Central California. Founded in the early 2000’s by Justin Smith, a young winemaker who had previously been part-owner of Linne Calodo, Saxum leapt into the limelight in late 2010 when its 2007 James Berry Vineyards wine was named the #1 Wine of 2010 by Wine Spectator. Smith owns the winery with his wife Heather, and produces up to 2,800 cases of wine a year.
The Paderewski Vineyard is owned by Bill and Liz Armstrong, the owners of Epoch Estate. It was the site of the legendary vineyard of Ignacy Jan Paderewski. Ignacy was a fascinating character and brilliant musician. The vineyard was replanted with the original varieties that made it famous, Zinfandel and Petite Sirah as well as several Rhone Varietals.
Purple in color. 15.8% ABV. 46% Mataro, 19% Syrah, 15% Tempranillo, 8% Petite Sirah, 7% Zinfandel and 5% Grenache. Sublime nose of red and black fruits, Whitman Sampler box, roasted herbs and violets. Full bodied with tremendous acidity and notable balance. Dark and brooding. Black cherry, raspberry liqueur and dark chocolate on the palate. Nice length on the finish. This wine is showing beautifully and should drink well for another 2-3 years.
My rating: 94 points.
The 2024 version of this wine will be offered to the mailing list early next year.
Current wines from Saxum are available via the mailing list at $138 per bottle. I am unclear on whether this is a wait to get wines via the mailing list.