Saxum The Hexe Paso Robles Willow Creek District 2018

100 points Jeb Dunnuck: “Another perfect wine is the 2018 Hexe, a blend of 57% Grenache, 15% Mourvèdre, 13% Graciano, 10% Syrah, and the rest Petite Sirah that’s a 60/40 split from the James Berry and G2 vineyards. Full-bodied, concentrated, and incredibly pure, its vivid purple (it’s not completely opaque) color is followed by ample dark berry and black cherry fruits as well as notes of candied orange, licorice, peppery herbs, and an incredible sense of minerality. It reminds me of a great vintage of Janasse’s Châteauneuf du Pape Vieilles Vignes and is another tour de force from winemaker Justin Smith that will benefit from short-term cellaring and keep for 15+ years. Drink: 2021-2036. (9/30/21)”

Producer notes: “57% Grenache, 15% Mataro, 13% Graciano, 10% Syrah, 5% Petite Sirah. A deep, ark intense wine… The Hexe is blackberry, licorice, smoked meats, and a bit of dark chocolate
all wrapped up in silky tannins. Lay this baby down for a couple of years and you will be greatly rewarded. Drink: now-2040. Alcohol 15.9%. 825 cases produced.”