Justin Vineyards & Winery Justin Justification 2021 750ml

This is an aggressively ripe and potent blend of 51% Merlot and 49% Cabernet Franc, a wise pick for those who prefer boldness over subtlety. The nose booms with berry, caramel and oak aromas that retain a freshness. The palate is wrapped in decent tannins that frame the luxardo cherry and pine needle flavors that are nearly sweet in expression.

Grilled blueberry aromas are tinted with coffee bean on the nose of this blend of 60% Cabernet Franc and 40% Merlot. The palate is dark and dry, layered in flavors of espresso bean, blackberry sauce and smoky caramel.

Full-bodied, dense and creamy, with blackberries, grilled bell peppers and sweet spices on the nose. Fine tannins with a creamy texture and a dense core of sweet berries, sweet spices and a touch of chocolate caressing the mid-palate and the similarly generous finish. 60% cabernet franc and 40% merlot. Drink or hold.

The 2022 Justification opens with an understated and airy mix of sweet sage, blackberries and wet stone. It is round and supple, with cooling acidity and masses of ripe red and black fruits. It finishes a bit shorter than anticipated yet remains fresh and gently tannic.

This offers up a slightly jammy profile of cherry and loganberry, with a mix of light licorice, singed vanilla and dill notes on the finish. Cabernet Franc and Merlot. Drink now. 10,873 cases made. (James Molesworth)