Discover the ultimate expression of Paso Robles with Justin Isosceles Red Wine, a flagship Bordeaux-style blend crafted from 88% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Merlot, and 6% Cabernet Franc. This full-bodied masterpiece showcases a luxurious complexity with aromas of ripe black cherry, blackberry, currant, and hints of tobacco, cedar, and vanilla. Its palate reveals layers of rich black fruit, baking spices, and savory leather, culminating in a long, balanced finish with velvety tannins and vibrant acidity. Barrel-aged for 20 months in 100% new French oak, it pairs beautifully with filet mignon, venison, or rich, slow-cooked dishes. Perfectly drinkable now or for aging, the 2020 Justin Isosceles is an essential addition for wine enthusiasts seeking elegance and depth.
Process & Profile
Crafted with the same uncompromising care as the *Grands Vins* of Bordeaux, Justin Isosceles is a masterful blend of 88% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Merlot, and 6% Cabernet Franc. The wine undergoes stainless steel fermentation with twice-daily pump-overs and matures for 20 months in 100% new French oak barrels. This process results in a full-bodied, layered wine with unparalleled depth and balance. Aged to perfection, it is enjoyable upon release but also continues to evolve gracefully in the cellar.
Tasting Notes
Justin Isosceles is a feast for the senses:
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Appearance: Deep ruby with a purple-black core, it creates a luxurious visual experience with slow-forming stained tears on the glass.
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Aroma: Richly aromatic with layers of ripe black cherry, cassis, and plum. Notes of cedar, fresh tobacco, vanilla bean, and leather add complexity.
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Palate: Bold and full-bodied, the wine reveals lush flavors of black cherry, cassis, and subtle red berries on entry. It transitions to mid-palate notes of licorice, vanilla, and savory cedar, finished by chewy tannins and vibrant acidity. The long, evolving finish is marked by oak, baking spices, and ripe fruit that linger elegantly.
What Makes It Special
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Heritage: First produced in 1987, Isosceles is the wine that put JUSTIN Vineyards & Winery on the global map. It showcases the unique terroir of Paso Robles, where the combination of climate and soil creates grapes of exceptional character.
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Award-Winning Quality: Consistently rated 90+ by critics, the 2020 vintage scored 93 points for its complexity and structure.
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Versatility & Longevity: While ready to enjoy now, Isosceles is ideal for collectors due to its ability to age gracefully over 10+ years.
How to Enjoy
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Pairings: The bold flavors and velvety texture of Justin Isosceles make it a perfect match for rich dishes. Pair it with filet mignon, slow-braised short ribs, venison, or lamb for a luxurious dining experience.
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Serving: Decant for at least one hour to unlock its full bouquet and complexity. Serve at a temperature of 60-65°F in large Bordeaux-style glasses.
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Occasions: This wine shines as a holiday centerpiece, celebratory toast, or a gift for wine enthusiasts.
Indulge in the epitome of California winemaking with Justin Isosceles Red Wine—a sophisticated blend of tradition, innovation, and passion, all captured in every exquisite bottle.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Justin Isosceles Red Wine?
Justin Isosceles is a flagship Bordeaux-style red wine from Justin Vineyards, made predominantly with Cabernet Sauvignon, complemented by smaller amounts of Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Known for its rich, full-bodied profile, it showcases ripe black cherry and cassis with complex layers of tobacco, cedar, and baking spice, offering a long, evolving finish.
What is the composition of Justin Isosceles?
Justin Isosceles is composed of about 83-88% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6-9% Cabernet Franc, and 6-8% Merlot, depending on the vintage. This carefully crafted blend emphasizes the strengths of each varietal while creating a balanced wine.
What are the tasting notes for Justin Isosceles?
Justin Isosceles offers a rich aroma of black cherry, blackcurrant, tobacco, and vanilla bean. On the palate, it is full-bodied with ripe cherry, cassis, and subtle red berry flavors, leading to savory notes of cedar, leather, and licorice. The finish is long, complex, and vibrant, marked by smooth tannins and balanced acidity.
What food pairs well with Justin Isosceles?
This wine pairs exceptionally well with bold and flavorful dishes, such as filet mignon, slow-cooked beef short ribs, venison steak, or even hearty mushroom-based dishes. Its robust profile complements the richness of these meals.
How should Justin Isosceles be stored and served?
Justin Isosceles should be stored on its side in a cool, dark environment with consistent humidity. It is best served at a temperature of 60-65°F (15-18°C) to bring out its aromas and flavors. Decanting for about an hour is recommended to allow the wine to fully open up.
Can Justin Isosceles age, and for how long?
Yes, Justin Isosceles is designed for aging. While it is ready to drink upon release, it can develop further complexity over time with proper cellaring for up to 10-15 years, depending on the vintage.
Is Justin Isosceles vegan-friendly?
Justin Winery does not explicitly advertise Isosceles as vegan-friendly. If this is a concern, checking directly with the winery for specific winemaking practices is recommended.
What makes Paso Robles a great region for Justin Isosceles?
Paso Robles' unique climate and diverse soil types create ideal conditions for growing Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc. The warm days, cool nights, and maritime influence allow for the full ripening of grapes while preserving their acidity, resulting in balanced and flavorful wines like Justin Isosceles.