James Berry Vineyard White 2017 - Saxum Vineyards

James Berry Vineyard White 2017 — Saxum Vineyards

The James Berry Vineyard White 2017 from Saxum Vineyards is one of the rarest white wines of Paso Robles. The first vintage of this cuvée, it offers an ambitious Californian interpretation of great Rhône-inspired whites, with the depth, texture and energy that have made Saxum one of the region’s most sought-after estates.

Sourced from the renowned James Berry Vineyard, this white combines aromatic richness, tension and a strong sense of personality. Ripe pear, quince, candied citrus, white flowers, light honey, brioche, gentle spice and chalk shape a broad, complex and highly gastronomic wine, carried by a long and fresh finish.

Terroir and winemaking

James Berry Vineyard is one of the great sites of Paso Robles, located in the cool, limestone-rich Willow Creek District. Maritime influence, poor soils and strong diurnal shifts help preserve freshness in wines that are naturally rich and structured.

The 2017 blend brings together 55% Grenache Blanc, 32% Roussanne, 8% Chenin Blanc and 5% Petit Manseng. Long ageing in barrel, on the lees, adds volume and complexity while preserving fruit purity, floral detail and the vineyard’s mineral tension.

Tasting notes

The 2017 vintage and service

The 2017 vintage gives a powerful, ripe and already complex white, balanced by the natural acidity of the grape varieties and the freshness of the site. The wine has enough substance to accompany rich cuisine while retaining real aromatic precision.

This cuvée can be served now after gradual opening, while still offering fine ageing potential. Serve at around 11 to 12°C, in large glasses, with measured aeration to reveal its complexity without weighing down the texture.