Saxum Heart Stone Vineyard Paso Robles 2012

96 points Jeb Dunnuck (Wine Advocate): "The 2012 Heart Stone Vineyard is 43% Syrah, 41% Grenache and 16% Mourvedre that was aged mostly in concrete (the ’11 was aged 100% in concrete) yet also saw some new and neutral puncheons. Fermented with 40% whole clusters, it’s a big, burly effort that has beautiful creme de cassis, black raspberry, crushed violets, vanilla bean and exotic flower-like qualities all emerging from the glass. It too has a structured feel, with high, yet ripe tannin, so short-term cellaring is also advised here. (Aug 2014)"

92-94 points Antonio Galloni (Vinous): "Pine, mint, juniper berries, spices and a host of high-toned, expressive nuances meld together in the 2012 Heart Stone Vineyard. The sweet, layered finish is particularly of note. While the 2011 was done entirely in concrete, the 2011 was vinified in a combination of concrete and oak. Drink: 2015-2022. (Jul 2014)"

92+ points Josh Raynolds (Vinous): "Opaque purple. Smoky, deeply pitched black raspberry, gingerbread and floral pastille scents show excellent clarity. Sweet and palate-staining, with intense red and dark berry liqueur flavors stretching out slowly. Finishes with outstanding thrust and length, chewy tannins coming up quickly to add grip. Drink: 2021-2028. (Sep 2015)"