When it comes to world-class wines, Justin Vineyards and Winery is considered by many to be a forerunner. Situated at the very end of the wine trail on the westside of Paso Robles, a Disneyland wine world awaits. Just when you think you’ve driven too far, keep going. The road will eventually end at Justin Vineyard and Winery.
Planted in 1981 by founder and wine ambassador Justin Baldwin, most of the vines on the 160 acre estate are single varietal or Bordeaux varietals. Today more than 13 select growers in the Paso Robles appellation supply grapes for Justin Vineyards and Winery.
Opulence is quite evident at Justin Vineyards and Winery. The tasting room at the first entrance to the property is open to the public and has been recently remodeled and expanded. The Restaurant at Justin and the quaint Justin Inn cater to the discriminating wine lovers who wish to dine and stay in five-star comfort amongst the vines.
Wine club members are invited to venture down the road further to the members only tasting room, complete with a wine cave, a posh, yet inviting setting and a fabulous reserve tasting menu. Stellar service is a guarantee and private tours of the wine caves and barrel room can be arranged.
Our personal guide to the wine cave was Jim Gerakaris, a Certified Sommelier and Wine Educator for Justin Vineyards and Winery. Jim is a wealth of knowledge and loves to share his love of wine with fellow wine aficionados during tours, tastings and wine seminars.
The complimentary tasting menu for Justin Wine Society Members was amazing! The 2013 Rose, made from Cabernet Sauvignon, was quite aromatic, yet crisp and dry, with strawberry, white cherry, apple, lemon and ripe melon notes. The 2011 Justification is a full-bodied blend of Cabernet Franc and Merlot with red currant, black cherry, tobacco and licorice flavors that lives up to its namesake.
The crown jewel at Justin Vineyards and Winery is the 2010 Isosceles Reserve, an artisanal blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Cabernet Franc and Merlot. Full-bodied, and intense, this wine is complex with aromas of cassis, cherry, cinnamon, vanilla, cocoa, coffee, licorice and tobacco. The library wine list is quite extensive and interesting as well.
Next time you’re looking for a unique wine adventure, tantalize your senses with a visit to Justin Vineyards and Winery in Paso Robles. www.justinwine.com
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