2016 Justin "Isosceles" Paso Robles Bordeaux Blend
SKU #1419242
94 points
Vinous
Highly perfumed aromas of ripe black/blue fruits, vanilla and potpourri take on a smoky mineral nuance with air. Well-concentrated blueberry, cherry-vanilla, spice-cake and floral pastille flavors are complemented by suggestions of candied licorice and mocha. Finishes on an alluringly sweet dark fruit preserve note, with gently gripping tannins and outstanding vivacity and focus. (JR)
(12/2020)
94 points
Wine Enthusiast
Soft aromas of black cherry and smoked meat gain complexity thanks to hints of olive, tar and thyme in this Cabernet Sauvignon, which includes 8% Cabernet Franc and 7% Merlot. It boasts chiseled but firm tannins and a blackberry jam flavor that entices on the palate, while thyme, cracked pepper and soy tones ride out the close. (MK)
(7/2020)
92 points
Wine Advocate
The 2016 Isosceles is a Left Bank-styled blend of 85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Cabernet Franc and 7% Merlot, aged 21 months in 100% new French oak. Medium to deep ruby, it has a nose of dark fruits with touches of cassis, cedar, tobacco and aniseed. The full-bodied palate is firm, grainy and mineral-laced with a long finish. It's approachable now but will age well over the next 3-5 years in bottle. (EB)
(10/2020)
K&L Notes
Justin's Isosceles has been one of the closest things to a can't-miss domestic Bordeaux blend over the last decade. Add the fact that it so much less expensive than most of its Napa brethren and you have a great bargain on your hands. This year's blend is 85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Cabernet Franc, 7% Merlot. Winery note: "Dark ruby/purple core, lighter in color toward the rim. Moderate plus viscosity with slow forming, slightly stained tears. Highly aromatic with ripe black cherry and cassis fruit, vanilla and cinnamon spice with cedar, graphite, dried autumn leaf and licorice notes over an attractive toasted oak background. Dry, full-bodied with ripe, complex black fruit of cherry and blackcurrants layered with baking spice on the entry. The mid palate has continuing ripe fruit with savory dried leaf elements, cedar, anise, camphor and a bit of cocoa surrounded with firm, chewy tannins and sweet spice notes that add complexity as the palate evolves. Sustained fruit, spice, and savory elements mix through a very long, complex and fresh finish with lingering tannins. The 2016 ISOSCELES is full-bodied, complex and balanced and pairs well with rich, full-flavored dishes. If you can, try cellaring some of your 2016 ISOSCELES to better experience the added complexity and finesse that only time can bring to this exceptional wine."