The 2021 Saxum Broken Stones is a proprietary blend hailing from the Central Coast region of California, specifically the Paso Robles appellation within San Luis Obispo. This red wine showcases a robust mix of grape varietals, including 54% Syrah, 24% Mataro, 20% Graciano, and 2% Petite Sirah. The wine was fermented with 30% stems and underwent a 22-month aging process in 75% new 225-liter barriques. This use of smaller barrels is notable within the Saxum roster, primarily due to the tannic structure of the wine.
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate awarded the 2021 Broken Stones a high score of 95 points. Reviewer Matthew Luczy provided detailed tasting notes, describing the wine's aromatic profile as starting with a "lavish floral perfume and savory, polished, opaque fruit aromas." On the palate, the wine is described as "full-bodied and concentrated," ultimately leading to a "clean, lifted, juicy finish of crushed stones and fine yet persistent, swelling tannins framed with pleasingly rounded new-oak influence."
Luczy also noted that the wine responded well to aeration, gaining considerable length from the first pour, which suggests that the 2021 Broken Stones would benefit from a few years of aging to fully develop its potential. The review emphasizes the importance of patience, indicating that this wine will likely enhance its profile with proper cellaring.
The 2021 Saxum Broken Stones stands out not only for its high-quality blend and meticulous production process but also for its compelling sensory experience. This wine is a testament to Saxum's ability to craft complex and age-worthy wines that are well-regarded in the wine community.