2009 Saxum

The 2009 Booker Vineyard is 70% Syrah and 30% Mourvedre from one of the rockiest, steepest hillsides in Paso Robles. Layers of dark fruit, spices, tar and licorice emerge from the glass in this deep, sensual wine. Booker usually sees the highest percentage of new oak, and elements of spiciness come through on the finish, although some of the oakiness blows off with time in the glass. Booker is another site Smith planted and continues to pull fruit from, in this case three blocks of Syrah and one of Mourvedre. In 2009 there were two lots; the first 100% Syrah vinified with 20-25% stems, the second a Syrah/Mourvedre co-ferment. Both lots were blended for the finished wine. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2021. A.G. for Robert Parker 96+

A rather muscular 2009, yet for all its firmness and density there's a purity of flavor, focus and persistence, gaining minerality yet driven by the tight boysenberry, blackberry and wild berry fruit. Ends with gripping tannins that make this all the more exciting. Syrah and Mourvèdre. Drink now through 2024. 350 cases made. –JL Wine Spectator 95

The 2009 Booker Vineyard is 70% Syrah and 30% Mourvèdre from one of the rockiest, steepest hillsides in Paso Robles. Layers of dark fruit, spices, tar and licorice emerge from the glass in this deep, sensual wine. Booker usually sees the highest percentage of new oak, and elements of spiciness come through on the finish, although some of the oakiness blows off with time in the glass. Booker is another site Smith planted and continues to pull fruit from, in this case three blocks of Syrah and one of Mourvèdre. In 2009 there were two lots; the first 100% Syrah vinified with 20% stems, the second a Syrah/Mourvèdre co-ferment. Both lots were blended for the finished wine. -- Antonio Galloni 96+ Vinous