2021 Saxum 4hearts Vineyard

A unique cuvée in the Saxum lineup inspired by classic California Cabernets, the 2021 4hearts Vineyard is a blend of 46% Petite Sirah, 35% Cabernet Sauvignon and 19% Zinfandel. It underwent a 22-month élevage in 59% new 225-liter French oak barrels and a small portion of American oak. The nose is beautiful and singular, displaying aromas of black fruit, wet soil, new leather, hoisin and integrated but noticeable accents of toasted coconut. The texture is ripe, plush and forward while retaining a graceful, nuanced core before transitioning to a juicy yet grippy finish with an herbal eucalyptus-driven accent at the conclusion—a lovely nod to old-school California winemaking while remaining true to Saxum's identity.

The 2021 Four Hearts Vineyard is another flat-out awesome 2021 that readers will love. Based on 46% Petite Sirah, 35% Cabernet Sauvignon, and the rest Zinfandel, it sports a saturated purple hue to go with exotic notes of cassis, green tobacco, sandalwood, baking spices, and incense. It’s clearly the finest vintage of this cuvée to date, and this full-bodied, incredibly pure, layered, flawlessly balanced red can be drunk today with incredible pleasure or cellared for upwards of 10-15 years, depending on your preferences. The tannin quality here is off the charts. The 2020s from Saxum are solid wines, although there are subtle signs of smoke in a few of the wines, and in general, the wines are narrower and more focused than normal, yet still nicely concentrated. At a high level, I think these are good to outstanding wines that will offer pleasure. Clearly the 2021s are a step up, and this is another brilliant vintage for winemaker Justin Smith.