With JUSTIFICATION, the Old World meets the New with a blend of Cabernet Franc and Merlot. This wine expresses the spirit of a few right bank Bordeaux producers who highlight Cabernet Franc with its complex expression of herbs, red fruit and elegant structure, only with a Paso Robles twist of full, mature fruit. A versatile pairing wine to a wide range of foods, JUSTIFICATION is perfect for a romantic dinner in front of a crackling fire or a summer’s evening barbeque.
Dark ruby purple core with blue/black secondary hue, a medium rim with thick tears showing slight staining on the glass. Aromatic and complex with ripe red cherry, black currant and a little berry with vanilla, cinnamon and licorice spice, cedar and graphite notes, oak, leather, dried autumn leaves and a minty hint of camphor.
Moderate-plus to full-bodied, dry, with ripe cherry and cassis mixed with baking spice on entry joined by cedar and oak on the mid-palate with complex savory, herbal elements. The finish is long, balanced and clean, with returning red and black fruit and perfectly proportioned, fine, mouth-filling tannins. The 2017 JUSTIFICATION is elegant with a perfect balance of fruit, savory and textural elements making is a versatile food pairing wine. To prove this, try it with a wide range of dishes from Rotissierie Chicken, or Duck Confit, to Entrecote Bordelaise et pomme frites, a classic regional dish from Bordeaux of pan seared steak with a red wine shallot and thyme pan sauce served with crispy fries.
Critic Ratings
Wine Enthusiast Review - Issue 8/1/2020 - Rated 91:
Aromas of dried berry, baked soil, beef and a hint of smoke show on the nose of this blend of 65% Cabernet Franc and 35% Merlot. The palate is dry and smoke-driven, offering iodine and roasted strawberry flavors. MATT KETTMANN
Robert Parker Wine Advocate Review - Published 30th Oct 2020 - Rated 92:
The 2017 Justification is a Right Bank-styled blend of 65% Cabernet Franc and 35% Merlot. Medium to deep ruby-purple in color, it offers bright red and black cherry fruits with notions of garrigue, dried herbs, vanilla and cardamom. In the mouth, it’s medium to full-bodied, with slowly opening fruits and a firm, grainy frame. It has great lift and freshness and finishes long. An approachable, friendly style. - Erin Brooks