Justin Isosceles & Justification Paso Robles Red Wines 2013
I admit I've never been a huge fan of Justin Isosceles, finding the Paso Robles terroir impact a bit too brambly for my preference. So it was with a slight bit of skepticism that I tasted the 2013 at Binny's Friday night table tasting. Wow. Not only was this the most impressive Isosceles in memory, it was truly exciting and memorable. I'd consider this a must buy for those seeking a premium Cabernet Blend for this vintage, or at least a must try.
Justin Isosceles 2013
Isosceles of course if the flagship wine of Justin Vineyards and Winery since 1981, from the mountains above Paso Robles between the City on Hwy 101 and the Pacific Central California Coast. Since 1981, producer Justin Baldwin has tended 160 acres of Bordeaux varietals Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Merlot.
Producers Notes: This sums it up very well and is worth noting.
Appearance: Bright, near opaque, ruby purple core with a narrow, moderate intensity rim and slow forming slightly stained tears.
Aroma: Intense and complex with aromas of ripe black fruit, baking spice, sweet tobacco, leather, cocoa, oak barrel elements with subtle smoky eucalyptus accents.
Palate: Dry and full-bodied with rich black cherry and blackcurrant fruit, vanilla, cinnamon and licorice spice notes on the entry. Savory, herbal and mint notes appear, followed by dark chocolate and smoky oak elements on the mid palate. The finish is very long and crisp with a complex interplay between the savory mid-palate and returning fruit of red cherry candy and sweet spice with a floral hint of violet, all framed by soft, chewy tannins. The 2013 Isosceles is drinking exceptionally well at release but has the structure to further develop beautifully over time. Great with classic cab fare like rich braised short ribs or grilled leg of lamb with garlic and herbs, the 2013 Isosceles also drinks well on its own due to its exceptional balance of flavor and texture even when young.
Blend 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 16% Cabernet Franc, 9% Merlot
This was truly unique in its character and flavor profile. I was taken aback by the bright vibrant expressive cherry and black currant fruits punctuated by a luscious floral perfume of silky sweet cinnamon with hints of vanilla and mocha chocolate on the smooth lingering finish.
Dark blackish garnet color medium bodied, forward concentrated bright expressive tangy spicy black berry fruits accented with tones of anise, oaky and hints of smoke and creosote finishing with gripping tannins. Perhaps a couple years of aging will tame this bruiser a bit.
RM 89 points.
https://www.cellartracker.com/wine.asp?iWine=2161407
http://www.justinwine.com/wines/red/justification-2013/
I admit I've never been a huge fan of Justin Isosceles, finding the Paso Robles terroir impact a bit too brambly for my preference. So it was with a slight bit of skepticism that I tasted the 2013 at Binny's Friday night table tasting. Wow. Not only was this the most impressive Isosceles in memory, it was truly exciting and memorable. I'd consider this a must buy for those seeking a premium Cabernet Blend for this vintage, or at least a must try.
Justin Isosceles 2013
This 2013 is an eye opener for me and puts Paso Robles and Justin Vineyards and Winery on the map as a producer to pay more attention to, and as a wine discovery adventure destination. In the meantime, pick up and try this impressive release.
Appearance: Bright, near opaque, ruby purple core with a narrow, moderate intensity rim and slow forming slightly stained tears.
Aroma: Intense and complex with aromas of ripe black fruit, baking spice, sweet tobacco, leather, cocoa, oak barrel elements with subtle smoky eucalyptus accents.
Palate: Dry and full-bodied with rich black cherry and blackcurrant fruit, vanilla, cinnamon and licorice spice notes on the entry. Savory, herbal and mint notes appear, followed by dark chocolate and smoky oak elements on the mid palate. The finish is very long and crisp with a complex interplay between the savory mid-palate and returning fruit of red cherry candy and sweet spice with a floral hint of violet, all framed by soft, chewy tannins. The 2013 Isosceles is drinking exceptionally well at release but has the structure to further develop beautifully over time. Great with classic cab fare like rich braised short ribs or grilled leg of lamb with garlic and herbs, the 2013 Isosceles also drinks well on its own due to its exceptional balance of flavor and texture even when young.
Blend 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 16% Cabernet Franc, 9% Merlot
This was truly unique in its character and flavor profile. I was taken aback by the bright vibrant expressive cherry and black currant fruits punctuated by a luscious floral perfume of silky sweet cinnamon with hints of vanilla and mocha chocolate on the smooth lingering finish.
RM 94 points.
http://www.justinwine.com/wines/red/2013-isosceles/
Justin Justification 2013
This is Justin's Right Bank Bordeaux blend, being Merlot based vs. Left Bank Cabernet predominant. While Merlot typically would be slightly softer and more mellow than more forward Cabernet, this is actually mostly Cabernet Franc which is put into Bordeaux Blends for punctuation of spice and bright bold sprites. Voila! With its Cab Franc core, this is bright, tangy spicy and expressive. This is more the style that I associate with Justin red blends.
Once again, as above, I offer the Producer's notes on this wine.
Justin Justification 2013
This is Justin's Right Bank Bordeaux blend, being Merlot based vs. Left Bank Cabernet predominant. While Merlot typically would be slightly softer and more mellow than more forward Cabernet, this is actually mostly Cabernet Franc which is put into Bordeaux Blends for punctuation of spice and bright bold sprites. Voila! With its Cab Franc core, this is bright, tangy spicy and expressive. This is more the style that I associate with Justin red blends.
Once again, as above, I offer the Producer's notes on this wine.
COLOR: Deep ruby purplish core lightening to medium intensity at the rim.
AROMA: Ripe red cherry, blackcurrant and
just-rip blackberry, with rich vanilla and cinnamon spice and an
attractive savory and herbal character.
PALATE: Full and complex with an elegant
mix of ripe red fruit, primarily cherry with cassis and a little plum,
and rich baking spice on the entry. A little dusty, savory cabernet
franc charm emerges on the mid-palate along with subtle mint and
eucalyptus notes leading to a long, clean finish.
Blend - 58% Cabernet Franc 42% Merlot
While I normally love bold tangy spicy wines, I prefer it as a complementary tone, not as the main course. When combined with the brambly Paso Robles terroir character and the profile of an expressive vintage, this is almost a bit over the top for me, which I very rarely say.
Blend - 58% Cabernet Franc 42% Merlot
While I normally love bold tangy spicy wines, I prefer it as a complementary tone, not as the main course. When combined with the brambly Paso Robles terroir character and the profile of an expressive vintage, this is almost a bit over the top for me, which I very rarely say.
Dark blackish garnet color medium bodied, forward concentrated bright expressive tangy spicy black berry fruits accented with tones of anise, oaky and hints of smoke and creosote finishing with gripping tannins. Perhaps a couple years of aging will tame this bruiser a bit.
RM 89 points.
https://www.cellartracker.com/wine.asp?iWine=2161407
http://www.justinwine.com/wines/red/justification-2013/
