Justin 2022 Reserve Cabernet

The 2022 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon from Justin is a commanding expression of Paso Robles’ terroir, delivering depth, intensity, and balance in a way that only the finest Central Coast vintages can. Sourced from the same pedigreed vineyards that define their iconic ISOSCELES blend, this 100% Cabernet Sauvignon is a revelation—one that will captivate connoisseurs with its structured elegance and profound complexity. With a core of ripe black fruit, sweet baking spices, and the hallmark herbal and savory nuances that define world-class Cabernet, this wine is at once opulent and impeccably refined. Its firm yet polished tannins ensure a seamless texture, carrying the wine through an expansive, layered finish that lingers well beyond expectation. While undeniably alluring in its youth, this is a bottle that will reward patience, evolving beautifully over the next decade, unveiling even greater nuance with time in the cellar.

The 2022 vintage was shaped by Paso Robles’ relentless drought conditions—three years running—creating an environment where only the most tenacious vines thrived. An early-season deluge provided much-needed moisture, but the winter that followed remained cold and dry, setting the stage for a season of resilience. Budbreak arrived on schedule, the vines unfurling into spring with vigor, supported by meticulous vineyard management that mitigated the stress of arid conditions. By mid-summer, veraison signaled the transition from growth to ripening, with grapes accumulating sugars under the intense California sun. Then came the defining moment of the vintage: an unprecedented heat wave in early September, sending temperatures soaring past 107°F for nine straight days. To preserve the integrity of the fruit and maintain balance, the harvest team executed a historic first—picking under the cover of night, guided by floodlights, ensuring that only pristine, perfectly ripe clusters made their way to the winery. The result? A vintage marked by concentration, structure, and an impressive balance between power and freshness.

In the glass, this Cabernet Sauvignon is a striking deep ruby, its vibrancy hinting at the energy within. The nose unfurls in layers—blackberry compote, red plum, and dark cherry intertwined with cocoa powder, black tea, and a subtle yet compelling minerality. French oak aging imparts a luxurious framework of vanilla bean, caramelized sugar, and warm allspice, harmonizing seamlessly with the wine’s fruit-driven core. On the palate, an opulent rush of Bing cherry and blackberry melds with notes of espresso, leather, and nutmeg, all underpinned by finely integrated tannins. A bright streak of acidity ensures a lifted, mouthwatering finish, leaving an indelible impression of balance, depth, and purity. The 2022 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon is a testament to the resilience of Paso Robles terroir and the unwavering commitment to excellence at Justin—an essential addition to any collector’s cellar.

100% Cabernet Sauvignon

Alcohol: 15.5%

Socially Rated 4+ / 5 ⭐

The 2022 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon is clear and deep ruby in color, lightening at the rim, with light staining in the glass and moderately thick tears. The nose is medium intensity, offering rich red plum, blackberry jam, cocoa powder, and savory tea leaf, with a vein of earthy minerality adding complexity to the juicy fruit and autumn spice. Oak contributes warm notes of vanilla, caramel, and allspice. On the palate, the wine is dry and full-bodied, with intense, youthful red fruit flavors of Bing cherry and blackberry, layered with leather, espresso, and nutmeg. The long finish is accented by well-integrated tannins and a refreshing acidity that keeps the wine from being heavy.