Saxum Vineyards James Berry Vineyard Rocket Block, Paso Robles, USA 2022

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.

This Rocket Block is all about in your face Grenache notes. Big, ripe, red fruits. Think cherry and cranberry that just jump out of the glass. The mouthfeel is all about smooth caressing tannins, a trademark of the '22 vintage. The finish is long and seductive, it clings to the palate, but clears out with some fun underbrush tones. If you’ve ever picked fresh blackberries down by the creek on a hot summer day, you’ll know what I’m talking about!

"The 2022 Rocket Block, based on 54% Grenache, 38% Mataro, 4% Syrah, and 4% Counoise aged 32 months in French oak, shows a ruby/plum hue and offers a perfumed, exotic nose of blackberries, kirsch liqueur, peppery garrigue, graphite, and exotic flowers. These carry to a full-bodied, seamless, opulent palate with incredibly polished tannins, a multi-dimensional mouthfeel, and a great finish. Despite its richness and concentration, it stays light on its feet and does everything right." Jeb Dunnuck 98