November 11, 2007

2005 Justin Cabernet



What a delicious wine for a low price. I've had the 05 Justin Cab numerous times and it never fails to disappoint and is always a favorite amongst guests. Located in Paso Robles, California, Justin Vineyards focuses on making Bordeaux-style blends and single varietals at a reasonable price. The property was founded in 1981 by Justin and Deborah Baldwin when they planted their 160 acre property to the major Bordeaux varietals and created their Estate vineyard. Since then Justin and Deborah have produced and experimented with nearly every varietal known to man including Chardonnay, Sauv Blanc, Cab Franc, Deborah's Delight Orange Muscat, Malbec, Petit Verdot, Sangiovese, Syrah, Tempranillo, Viognier, and Zinfandel. That's quite a list! I'm always a little wary of wineries that crank out so many different varietals but from the few Justin wines I've had they just might be the exception to the rule. It should also be noted that the varietals listed above are not all produced every year. One other interesting thing to note about Justin Vineyards is that there is a luxurious European inspired Inn with four fairly priced suites on the property as well as a dining room. I have a trip planned here in the spring and will make sure to post a full review. I've had the 2005 Justin Cab right out of the bottle but on this particular evening I decanted for 6 hours before drinking.

Tasting Notes: Very dark body with a lighter shaded rim, fruit forward nose jumps out at you with dark aromas of plum, cherry and slight oak. In the mouth the wine is delicate with a fruit forward entry only to finish with beautiful soft round tannins and hints of spice. A versatile wine that pairs well with food or can be enjoyed alone. This wine drinks well young but will improve with a few years of bottle age. Very good Cab at a great price.

Score: 89

Price: $21

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