Saxum - Somnus Paso Robles 2019 (750ml)

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Producer	Saxum
Country	United States
Region	Paso Robles
Varietal	Red Blend
Vintage	2019
Sku	1212

 

I finally get to introduce you to this new cuvée, Somnus, named after the Roman god of sleep, because this wine gets to sleep an extra year in barrel! 44 months it’s been slumbering away. Back in 2019 we had a couple of amazing lots in our cellar that were so unique, and so incredible, I really wanted to showcase them. The problem was they were also extremely structured. The original plan was to give them the 33 month elevage like Bone Rock and Rocket block, but when it came time to bottle it last year it was still too beastly. Think velvet glove in a iron gauntlet. We tucked it back in and let it sleep another whole year, and when it woke up this time, it blew us all away. It is something unique for sure. Still a beast, but something very special. Something that I believe could only happen here on the Central Coast. It is another wine in this line up that has to be tasted to be believed, but understand, it’s not for the faint of heart. It is Paso.

These 2019 wines have a little something for everyone, which is why I think I like them so much. Lifted, fresh aromatics of sage and spice and fruit. Along with lots of rich California fruit, deep textures, smooth tannins and lively acids that keep it all harmonizing so well. These days there are so many great wines out there that have one or the other. Rich, smooth tannins, or fresh, spice/fruit driven aromatics. I find it rare to have both, and frankly, that's my holy grail. What really piques my interest.

The first release of this co-fermented, extended aging cuvée that collects the most spice-driven, tannic blocks of James Berry Vineyard and Heart Stone, the 2019 Somnus is impressive in its ability to deliver monstrous size and refined intrigue in nearly equal proportions. Composed of 33% Petite Sirah, 32% Syrah, 16% Graciano, 10% Tourginal Nacional and 3% Cabernet Sauvignon, it was aged a full 44 months in 87% new 225-liter barrels. The nose is seemingly endless in its dense opacity, showing off a plethora of sumptuous, dark fruit, black pepper and exotic spice aromas that continuously elevate and morph in the glass. The palate continues this lavish profile with a rich, extracted yet muscular texture that provides welcome vibrancy against the immense concentration of the palate. The finish is explosive and multidimensional and impressively continues to gain layer after layer of dark-fruited, chocolate-laden nuance with time in the glass.