2022 Saxum Hexe | Willow Creek District, Paso Robles California 750ml

A complete 180 from the '22 Rocket Block, even though the blend is similar. Much darker fruit, and I think the herbal notes take the lead over Grenache's typical red fruit. More fennel seed and sage. In the mouth it's more about structure with nice oak tannins framing up the fruit. I'd say it has great complexity and like the '21 Somnus will really shine with some time in bottle. It's a tour de force of old vine Grenache. 525 cases produced. | Justin Smith for Saxum

Deep ruby/plum-hued...Powerful notes of ripe black fruits, plums, peppery herbs, and graphite dominate the bouquet. It's deep, full-bodied, and textured on the palate, with ripe, polished, yet building tannins, no hard edges, and an incredible finish. This powerful, serious, sensational Southern Rhone-like blend will drink well for 15+ years. | 98, Jeb Dunnuck for jebdunnuck.com