Dried cranberry, blackberry, radish, plum, raisin. Soft tannins, crisp acidity, long finish and nicely balanced. but didn’t meet expectations, would have like to have tried this a few years ago
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I was a tad worried this might have aged out when I opened it. Boy was I wrong I’m positive it has several more good years ahead but alas I’ll never know as this was my last 2009. Fabulous nose. Full of fruit still along with tertiary aromas. Blackberry, dark plum, raisins, leather, earthy, Forrest floor. Very smooth tannins, crisp acid. Long enjoyable finish with a blackberry compote flavor lingering.
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Took 30 minutes to open but definitely time for me to drink through these. Very nice finish with flavors of dark fruit and chocolate. Probably not at it prime any longer.
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Decanted on opening and very jammy and fruit forward. It seemed to soften a bit over the next couple of hours, but was still very fruity. Wil try double decanting and allowing it to sit much longer o the net bottle.
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Double decanted // Color was still dark red fruit dark // 1. Waited 1 hour // Wine was still trying to define itself as either (too) fruit forward or not // 2. Waited 90 minutes and the wine decided // Opened with deep blueberry focus with vanilla and spice // After that, blueberry softened and the wine added a gentle mix of more vanilla, a mix of spices and fig // A long finish as the blueberry faded //
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Decanted for about 30 minutes. Wonderful right away and evolved nicely over the evening. The tannins are fully resolved and there is still loads of fruit. An amazing amount of fruit really. Delicious wine. Don't cellar this much longer.
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Poured for us by our friends Marty and Jessica and paired with Marty's delicious prime rib; think it was PnP but not sure. Classic big CA cab nose with blackberries, black cherries and a slight clove-cinnamon note. Similar on the palate with moderate tannins, light acidity, some oak and just a touch of heat which integrated while the bottle was open but didn't entirely dissipate. Dark, medium to full-bodied, medium to thick legs. The usual reliable and solid Iso could have gained another point or 2 as another TN noted without the heat and a bit more acidity. Good wine and solid pairing, but fell a bit below the Sattui Preston which preceded it (also possible I was suffering from a bit of palate fatigue). Light acidity makes me think that this is a drink sooner than later wine.
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Color was dark ruby with purple in the center with medium legs. Nose was black fruit potpourri with blackberry,black cherry, cherry licorice and black olive. The palate was full of black olive, blackberry, clove, tar, definite oak and tannins. As ECOENOPHILE state the palate was muted. Finish is still buried after 10 years. I think high extraction of Cabernet in warm climes such as Paso Robles comes at a high price and Cabernet is not bulletproof to 2009's late October rains.
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Great central coast Cab. I know we call this a blend but it’s 94% cab. Nose is light black berry. Big mouth of fruit and spice, typical of this wine. Tannins are smooth but still present. What’s missing and held my score down was acidity on the finish. All I got was heat high alcohol which made the balance just a bit off. While a very enjoyable wine, value may be a bit off here. I have personally cellared this for 7 years and really expected a bit more. May be a bit over hyped. Sure would be disappointed at restaurant prices
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Deep garnet color. Nose of ripe berries. Clove, pepper and a bit of oak on the palate. Full bodied with a medium finish. Thought the tannins were a bit heavy but I did not let this breathe for very long. Very nice accompaniment to barbecued ribs. Really holds its own.
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Decanted about 1 hour. Opaque crimson purple in the glass. Initial bouquet is bursting with red fruit, raspberry and pomegranate. Some oak notes, but not overdone. Very silky on the pallate. Tannins have really settled down and is perfectly balanced right now. Good balance of red berries and cassis flavors come through in the middle. Finish is long and silky with a vanilla undertone as it fades. This is an outstanding California bordeaux.
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Did not disappoint. Very well balanced at this point but I'm glad I have a few more bottles to enjoy over the next five years or so. Tannins are still very apparent but with two hours of decanting the wine was soft and bold and held up to Prime Rib very well.
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Decanted 45 minutes, left uncorked 3 hours before drinking. Side-by-side comparison with a ‘09 Justin Isosceles Reserve. Lovely aromatics, more red fruits on the palate with cassis. This is ready to go now and works well without food. Seems squarely in its drinking window, but I think it will last to 2023. Other than the different grapes selected for this wine, it seems like it must have some different barrel treatment with more neutral casks. Should last into the 2020’s. Really nice stuff!
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Typical Isosceles. Big, bold and spicy. Deep ruby color. Full bodied. Nose of tar, creosote and cedar. Ample amounts of red fruit, cinnamon, pepper, clove on the palate. Great accompaniment to spicy bratwurst and charcoal grilled hamburgers. May be a bit young yet. Glad I have three more bottles.
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Deep, opaque garnet in the glass. Cedar and spice on the nose. Big and very full bodied. On the palate, this somewhat resembles a Shiraz in the notes of pepper and clove on the palate but is smoother and without the metallic overtones of a young Shiraz. Drinking nicely and a great accompaniment to barbecued ribs.
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In similar vein as the Caymus regular bottling. Big and syrupy with extracted red fruit, prunes, and toasted vanilla. Still substantial alcoholic heat with a major medical notes of menthol and glycerin. In my opinion this has turned a little harsh with time.
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Still lots of life left in this wine, decant for at least an hour. Typical Isosceles with bright fruit, vanilla, great Paso cab blend. Last bottle of the original Isosceles in my cellar.
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Rich and dark fruits, really smooth integrated tannins. The alcohol, though high, is pretty balanced. Nice length on the finish. Wanting a little more acidity which would have pushed it up a point for me.
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Deep ruby. Sweet black cherry, raspberry and leather on the nose. Pronounced legs. Rich, full and well balanced with integrated tannins and fruit. Notes of dark pitted fruits like plum and black cherry, cassis, spice and leather. Long finish. Drinking very well. At least as good on the second day. Would buy again.
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A good year and bottle. Deep color. The wine looks brick colored. The legs are medium. There is no sediment in the bottle. It smells like black pepper and burnt match. It tastes like stoniness, bark and clove. The body is medium/full. The wine has coarse texture. The wine finishes long. The wine has medium acidity.
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This wine is in its wheelhouse...drinking beautifully. Full bodied with fine tannins, dark cherry, vanilla, spice, plum, cassis...with a nice medium finish. Just a great cabernet all the way around.
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a 2009 bottle drunk in Feb 2016: this wine has definitely started on the downhill. Nice dark berry but it's missing a few notes. Two more bottles in the fridge and I'm going to have to drink them quickly.
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Spicy dark fruit and dark chocolate aromas. On the palate it's medium-full bodied and smooth with black cherry, plum, dark chocolate and vanilla flavors. Medium long finish. It's delicious with great fruit, but I prefer a wine with more acidity. Blend of 94% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Cabernet Franc, 3% Merlot
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Vintage Paso Robles- fruit forward with juicy black and red berry fruit. Balanced with bright acidity but very kettle tannins remaining. You just can't go wrong with this wine-if you like this style.
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This really impressed me. I really like bordeaux style wines and this is a great one. Ripe dark fruit and molassis. tannins are refined and the finish is long and powerful
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I really like this wine. Opened and let sit for two hours prior to drinking. This was enough time for the wine to really open up. I agree that it is a full bodied wine with a wonderful flavor of dark fruits and chocolate/coffee. No need to wait any longer on this one. It is drinking extremely well now.
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Gorgeous, thick, juicy, just the thing for Sunday dinner. Reminded me of some solid Oakville offerings....
The oak here is not subtle, but it does well to balance the fruit. Tannins are in check an nicely integrated. Decanting recommended but I would not filter it. The dusty tannins clogged the Rabbit and I just went without it and loved every last glass.
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We gathered some lucky friends to celebrate hubby’s birthday and poured a vertical of 2009, 2008, 2007, and 2006. The 2009 and 2006 were the overwhelming favorites. The 2009 is drinking beautifully now (my husband’s favorite of the group) but has enough structure to age for a while. The 2009 had a significantly higher percentage of cabernet sauvignon compared to the other vintages. The 2006 is a lovely balance of soft tannins and blue fruit. This was my personal favorite. The 2008 is still a nice wine but seemed somewhat off balance and tight compared to the other vintages (even the younger 2009). Maybe it’s the addition of Petite Verdot, but it definitely stuck out as the least favorite. Some time in the decanter did help it open up, so I will hold on to what I have for a few more years to see what happens.
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A beautiful wine. If you appreciate Cab-Sauvignon, then you must try to wine. A very serious wine, heavy, robust. I felt like I could chew this wine. Upon initial opening the bouquet was incredible. Just smelling this wine I knew I had a winner. Strong alcohol on the nose. I decanted it for 2 hours 30 mins and it really opened up!! Great legs, great taste, very deep-ruby red color. It paired well with barbecue chicken. We drank it over 2 hours and the wine continued to evolve in the glass!! This was my last bottle and I wish I had more of this wine.
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This was spicy on the nose, but full of flavor and with a medium finish. The initial flavors was dark black cherry, some smoke and cocoa with a chewy red currants. Some of the bottle had a green pepper flavor on the finish. Mark - try this one!
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cheers - big, bold, fruity californiacab with a long finish....if you love californiacabs, you'll enjoy this wine, because it's a very nice U.S. wine......if you prefer Old World wines, maybe you'll wonder why everyone rates this over 90 points.....nice wine, but no way I'd spend this much money to drink this.... (it was a gift)...it lacks finesse and subtlety...
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Decanted - vigorously shaken. Nose is black berry, big, bold...cardamom. Some cinnamon. Dark and inky. In the mouth, big, brooding, berry-ful (yeah, I know it's not a word), luscious. My wife loved this. I mean LOVED it, like the look when you tell her "no honey, I got the kids this morning...you go back to sleep". Paso Robles beautastical. Drink now if you're ready for the ride, or wait a few years. EXCELLENT.
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Deep crimson appearance. Juicy, long, and persistent with layers and layers of aromas and flavors. It masks its high alcohol with plump, luscious cherries, red currants, cocoa, herbs, smoky mesquite, and hints of decaying leaves and sandalwood. Displays crushed rock minerality, impeccable balance, a back note of black coffee, and a warm, tasty, red fruit finish. This is hedonistic. 93+
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Nice plummy nose, begins with fruit and quickly morphed into a tart cherry, almost italian tasting wine with a long finish. This is a nice wine, though it was overshadowed by the 2011 Double Eagle.
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This was a very good wine but with every sip, even after decanting, I could still feel the strong tannins so I know this was will get better after a few more years. However, my daughter came home from NYC for the weekend and I save bottles that she buys for me as gifts to share with her and my wife so I popped this one. After all that is what good wine is all about. Cheers.
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Poured through a vinturi for a 2 hour decant. Beautiful deep purple color with a nose of rich blackberry cobbler and violets. A fruit forward wine with a harmonious balance of velvety textures, restrained tannins and acidity. Flavors of ripe berries, chocolate, mild oak, soft leather and tobacco. Finish is full, long and elegantly enjoyable.
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Wow, this is the best Isosceles by far! Notes of dark chocolate are persistent all throughout from start to finish with hints of dark cherry, tobacco and espresso on the smooth, velvety palate. Very supple to the brink of being chunky, but holds its balance. Finishes long on round, smooth tannin with just a hint of vanilla, cedar and peppermint. A must try! Drink now with 30 minutes decant until 2024. 94+
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Popped and poured. It was ready right out of the bottle. I was pretty impressed. Crushed berries- maybe black fruits, fresh, floral, firm, nice texture/mouthfeel. Good finish. Glad I have a few more and look forward to seeing how this evolves. Would recommend.
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Fantastic aromas, but a bit different tasting for something that is almost entirely Cab. Earthy and mellow. More coffee than fruit. But still utterly enjoyable.
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Ok so I have been panning the 09 and loving the 10. Well this bottle of 09 rocked. Solid fruit and tannins. What I expected but did not get until this bottle. Based on this I bought a 6 pack of the Reserve and it is even better.
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Pop and pour, which was not fair to this wine, but so it goes. In the glass, dark red with a slight purplish tint at the rim. On the nose, a mix of mocha and currants. On the palate, more currants, a mild touch of oak, bitter cocoa, and a slightly sweet note on the finish. A hit with the crowd, I think I wanted a bit more...
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Appearance: Dark ruby in the glass with a violet rim Aroma: An alluring, rich mix of ripe black currants and berries faceted with vanilla, cinnamon and cocoa highlights. Palate: Full bodied, complex black fruit of lush currants, and cherry layered with licorice and vanilla spice with chocolate, roasted coffee, and tobacco. The finish is extremely long and complex, showing firm plush tannins that bring everything together making it easy to drink it now, but implying a great future.
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After the 2010 being so good I decided to try the 09. Not even close. OK, but not great. One thing about Justin is it is VERY vintage specific on all their wines. I highly recommend the 2010 Isosceles.... skip the 09.
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I love Big, bold, concentrated, fruit forward Napa Cabernets and to my surprise, this red blend meets my standards. Solid fruit and smooth tannins, rich, with dark berry flavors. Opulent, and nicely balanced with dark chocolate notes. A very pleasing red wine blend and I wonder how much better there Reserve might be? I will have to find out. 90.7 points
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Dark purple; big berry/jammy nose; herbaceous; light mint; ripe grapes (15.5 alc; 94% Cab, 3 Cab Franc, 3 Merlot); big body; tight tannins; big fruit extract; a little hot, alcohol finish. w/ribs
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I guess I should start this tasting note by saying that the 2009 Justin Isosceles is my #1 sub $100 bottle of wine. I simply cannot say enough about how delicious this wine is.
I honestly cannot say if it tastes like cassis or currant since I have never actually eaten either by themselves LOL! What I can say is that on the nose this wine reminds me a lot of the Caymus Cabernet. It is opulent, sexy and extremely balanced. This quality extends to the palate where I taste extremely balanced flavors of cinnamon, dark chocolate, dark fruits and coffee. The tannins are soft and supple and there is this terrific quality where it leaves this delicious bakers chocolate "dryness" on my tongue. It's not minerality, it's not tannic but something leaves this fantastic dry, sweet, bitter yet smooth finish. I'm honestly not sure how else to describe it.
The best part is the finish is incredibly long. I sear I can taste it on my lips an hour later and I'm hugely thankful for that!
Opened by VinT or friend at Glen Prairie. I thought this suffered in comparison to other old world bottles opened this night. Very fruit forward with raspberry and red fruits. I would like to revisit this on an evening when it is the only bottle open.
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VinT's friend brought this. The only other Isosceles I've had was the 1999 which I liked better. This wine stood out from the rest of the reds at this dinner (even the 2003 Neal) because it was much more forward and new world in style. Big, thick and creamy. Fruity with black and red berries. I would give this wine time and it should improve and round out some of the harsh edges. 89+ points
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Solid and elegant red fruit profile. Not as big and chewy as earlier vintages I've tried. A little more elegant bodied similar to their Justification wine. Finished half bottle second day and started to get a lot of dark chocolate from the oak. Another year or two will do this one some good.
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Deep purple with a ruby rim...sour cherry, black currant, blackberry pie, with a little mint and leather in a very pretty nose. On the palate, black cherry, blackberry, dark chocolate, and leather. At the back, every bit of the 15.5% alcohol comes out to play. Very good, still youthful wine...would have been even better were it not for the hot finish. I'll save my other two bottles for at least a couple years down the line.
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PHMG WAG Paso Robles (Paso Lyon): Deep cassis, plum, black cherry, and earth notes "win the day" (oh wait Chip Kelly moved on...). I liked the balance, length, and grip. 15.5% etoh well hidden, tons of time but you don't hafta wait.
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I think it is ready now with a good airing. Great balance of fruit and tannin. Smooth, long finish. Vanilla notes in nose. Can be a bit pricely, but I got it at $45, which is very fair.
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The wine looks Ruby colored. The legs are Medium. It tastes like Black currant (cassis), and Cherry. The body is Medium/Full. The wine has Silky texture. The wine finishes Medium.
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Dark ruby / purple. Rich blackberry and black currant fruits, coupled with moderate oak notes and moderate tannins. Lush, but not over the top, this is one of the better balanced Isosceles I can recall, with tea leaf, spice, vanilla notes giving it a nice complexity.
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Pop 'n pour. Very nice fruit on the nose and sweetness to it. It drank beautifully from the start. I think you can absolutely drink this now or wait several years for the sweetness to come off a little. I don't think this will be the longest lived Isosceles ever but it is a nice one. The tannins are smooth in this. Enjoy this one now or 7+ years from now
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- Ruby color with medium forming legs - Appearance: Dark ruby in the glass with a violet rim Aroma: An alluring, rich mix of ripe black currants and berries faceted with vanilla, cinnamon and cocoa highlights. Palate: Full bodied, complex black fruit of lush currants, and cherry layered with licorice and vanilla spice with chocolate, roasted coffee, and tobacco. The finish is extremely long and complex, showing firm plush tannins that bring everything together making it easy to drink it now, but implying a great future.
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Decanted for a few hours. Deep violet color to it. Nose of Toasty oak, black currant, vanilla. Full bodied and silky smooth on the balate. Big wine, but not flabby. Getting some oak spice on the finish. Very well balanced, tannins and great acidity hold up to the fruit of this baby. Will age for a while.
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Big black fruit. Black cherries, black currants some cassis & blackberries on the nose & palate. Loved it. Huge finish that lingered forever. Low acidity & made my mouth water. If its this good now what in the world will it be like in 10yrs. Breathtaking.
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Big flabby, rich, really tasted more like a Zin than a Cab. With 94% Cab in the mix, the makers must have been impressed with it. We were not. Sit on this for awhile - or like us, don't buy anymore.
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- Crimsom color with medium forming legs and aromas of blackberry and bell pepper. It's overly tannic and has flavours of black pepper and blackberry with a light/medium body. Polished texture with a long finish - So far, initial smell and taste is very strong, and overwhelming. Needs to breath for at least an hour. To me this will definitely get better with age. For surely 2013-15. Very tannic.
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2 years on French oak and 6 mo in bottle prior to release. Nice cassis, menthol, vanilla and cocoa notes on the nose. Elegant on nose and palate. Flavors of lush currant and black cherry with light licorice, vanilla, spice, roacted cocoa and coffee with hints of tobacco. Nice wine.
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Rich, dark garnet red in color. Bountiful nose of dark fruit. The wine is smooth, well balanced and follows with flavors that harmonize quite well with the nose. This is a great stand alone wine or can be served with meats that are willing to fight for their own attention.
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- Brick color with medium forming legs. It's balanced with a medium/full body. Round texture with a long finish - This is a delicious full bodied smash mouth red wine with a judicious amount of new French oak(hence the heavy vanilla on the nose). Very nice representation of a Bordeaux style blend from California! Highly recommend with anything beefy or heavy! you'll love it!
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2nd time having this one over last three months. Nothing but an outstanding wine. Very smooth, despite the youth of this wine. The fruit is strong, but not over-powering. Solid wine, all-around. Dark fruit, that was held up by a balanced oak flow throughout the glass. I hope this ages well, but very drinkable now.
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Full Body, Huge Dark fruit on the nose. I have had many Isosceles and this one is up there...Vinturi and in the decanter...Very well balanced, with a strong, solid fruit finish. The oak is there, but dark fruit dominates...Having it with aged, English cheddar brought out a pungency that wasn't noticeable before the cheese. Hint of sweetness on the nose, currant/cassis on the mid-palate. I want to have this in a year
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2/16/2024 - malvasia8796 Likes this wine: 89 Points
Dried cranberry, blackberry, radish, plum, raisin. Soft tannins, crisp acidity, long finish and nicely balanced. but didn’t meet expectations, would have like to have tried this a few years ago
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8/26/2023 - sw918 wrote: 97 Points
I was a tad worried this might have aged out when I opened it. Boy was I wrong I’m positive it has several more good years ahead but alas I’ll never know as this was my last 2009. Fabulous nose. Full of fruit still along with tertiary aromas. Blackberry, dark plum, raisins, leather, earthy, Forrest floor. Very smooth tannins, crisp acid. Long enjoyable finish with a blackberry compote flavor lingering.
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1/10/2023 - mshellow wrote: 91 Points
Blue fruit, zero tennis, muted. Past its prime. Drink up
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11/20/2022 - Castle Peak wrote: 93 Points
This is still drinking really well. Beautiful blue and red fruit flavors integrate well with soft tannins and light oak notes.
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10/22/2022 - rwerner Likes this wine: 91 Points
Took 30 minutes to open but definitely time for me to drink through these. Very nice finish with flavors of dark fruit and chocolate. Probably not at it prime any longer.
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1/7/2022 - PinotPaul Likes this wine: 92 Points
Still good fruit and oh sooo smooth. Probably at its peak.
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10/16/2021 - mattdathan Likes this wine: 93 Points
Beautifully aged.
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4/8/2021 - Parva Cellars Likes this wine: 91 Points
Gift from Gary Camp
Drank with Larry Gilbert
Excellent
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2/12/2021 - subguy87 Likes this wine: 89 Points
Decanted on opening and very jammy and fruit forward. It seemed to soften a bit over the next couple of hours, but was still very fruity. Wil try double decanting and allowing it to sit much longer o the net bottle.
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1/15/2021 - hoops92 Likes this wine: 93 Points
Initially very tight. Opened up after about 30 minutes into a well flavored, full bodied mature cab. At peak - drink up!
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12/5/2020 - Carsten Madsen wrote: 93 Points
Full mature cab. Black berry and settled oak. At its peak, drink now
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11/17/2020 - penguin3546 Likes this wine: 91 Points
Double decanted // Color was still dark red fruit dark //
1. Waited 1 hour // Wine was still trying to define itself as either (too) fruit forward or not //
2. Waited 90 minutes and the wine decided // Opened with deep blueberry focus with vanilla and spice //
After that, blueberry softened and the wine added a gentle mix of more vanilla, a mix of spices and fig //
A long finish as the blueberry faded //
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7/12/2020 - Deryl Likes this wine: 92 Points
Loads of fruit left.
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5/30/2020 - Leela Jean wrote: 79 Points
Drank on anniversary 2020
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5/3/2020 - kleinahoe Likes this wine: 92 Points
Full, muted tannins.
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4/12/2020 - PinotPaul Likes this wine: 92 Points
Wow. Lovely red blend. Smooth, with decent fruit. Probably at or just past its peak. Amazing nose. Thoroughly enjoyed.
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12/25/2019 - r4Cali Likes this wine: 94 Points
Prime drinking window. Absolutely amazing with Christmas dinner prime filets
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12/15/2019 - yasha Likes this wine: 94 Points
Great wine, did not have to much time to open .open for abut 30 minutes and was great.
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11/30/2019 - Deryl Likes this wine: 91 Points
Decanted for about 30 minutes. Wonderful right away and evolved nicely over the evening. The tannins are fully resolved and there is still loads of fruit. An amazing amount of fruit really. Delicious wine. Don't cellar this much longer.
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11/16/2019 - sfwinelover1 Likes this wine: 91 Points
Poured for us by our friends Marty and Jessica and paired with Marty's delicious prime rib; think it was PnP but not sure. Classic big CA cab nose with blackberries, black cherries and a slight clove-cinnamon note. Similar on the palate with moderate tannins, light acidity, some oak and just a touch of heat which integrated while the bottle was open but didn't entirely dissipate. Dark, medium to full-bodied, medium to thick legs. The usual reliable and solid Iso could have gained another point or 2 as another TN noted without the heat and a bit more acidity. Good wine and solid pairing, but fell a bit below the Sattui Preston which preceded it (also possible I was suffering from a bit of palate fatigue). Light acidity makes me think that this is a drink sooner than later wine.
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11/15/2019 - Martysfo wrote: 93 Points
Very paso like wine. Great minerality, wonderful and bright fruit, great acidity.
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2/9/2019 - EvanJB wrote:
Excellent
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2/3/2019 - redhead6971 Likes this wine: 88 Points
Color was dark ruby with purple in the center with medium legs. Nose was black fruit potpourri with blackberry,black cherry, cherry licorice and black olive. The palate was full of black olive, blackberry, clove, tar, definite oak and tannins. As ECOENOPHILE state the palate was muted. Finish is still buried after 10 years. I think high extraction of Cabernet in warm climes such as Paso Robles comes at a high price and Cabernet is not bulletproof to 2009's late October rains.
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1/18/2019 - Insane Diego Likes this wine: 91 Points
Great central coast Cab. I know we call this a blend but it’s 94% cab. Nose is light black berry.
Big mouth of fruit and spice, typical of this wine.
Tannins are smooth but still present.
What’s missing and held my score down was acidity on the finish. All I got was heat high alcohol which made the balance just a bit off.
While a very enjoyable wine, value may be a bit off here.
I have personally cellared this for 7 years and really expected a bit more.
May be a bit over hyped.
Sure would be disappointed at restaurant prices
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12/21/2018 - wconnolly Likes this wine: 90 Points
Nicely balanced with notes of blackberry, tar, clove and pepper. Full bodied with a long, lingering finish and grippy tannins. Ideal with barbecue.
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12/14/2018 - e+e Likes this wine:
PnP 1.5L. Absolutely wonderful!! Still reminiscing over it the next day. Shared between 4.
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11/5/2018 - levinml wrote: 93 Points
Winner. Really nice cab drinking at a plateau. Good flavors and balance. No hard edges and just a pleasure to drink over a couple nights. Drink soon.
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10/30/2018 - Ecoenophile wrote: 90 Points
Decanted for 2 hrs. Soft, red & blue fruits on the nose. Muted palate. Minimal fine grain tannins on the finish. Solid, but not distinctive.
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8/6/2018 - jmoore431 wrote: 92 Points
Classic Cali Cab in every way. Quite full and hearty.
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7/2/2018 - wconnolly Likes this wine: 90 Points
Deep garnet color. Nose of ripe berries. Clove, pepper and a bit of oak on the palate. Full bodied with a medium finish. Thought the tannins were a bit heavy but I did not let this breathe for very long. Very nice accompaniment to barbecued ribs. Really holds its own.
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6/10/2018 - wconnolly Likes this wine: 90 Points
See my previous notes....big, robust, earthy and spicy. Full bodied big Cabernet.
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4/19/2018 - jjh49 wrote: 94 Points
Similar notes as before - possibly drinking a bit better - bumping score up a point from before.
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4/16/2018 - Castle Peak wrote: flawed
Oxidized. :((
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1/26/2018 - ddisler wrote: 93 Points
Decanted about 1 hour. Opaque crimson purple in the glass. Initial bouquet is bursting with red fruit, raspberry and pomegranate. Some oak notes, but not overdone. Very silky on the pallate. Tannins have really settled down and is perfectly balanced right now. Good balance of red berries and cassis flavors come through in the middle. Finish is long and silky with a vanilla undertone as it fades. This is an outstanding California bordeaux.
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1/6/2018 - BigWhiskey Likes this wine: 93 Points
Full of dark red fruit and flavor. Amazing wine.
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12/26/2017 - jdjjadair Likes this wine: 92 Points
Did not disappoint. Very well balanced at this point but I'm glad I have a few more bottles to enjoy over the next five years or so. Tannins are still very apparent but with two hours of decanting the wine was soft and bold and held up to Prime Rib very well.
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12/17/2017 - wine247365 Likes this wine: 93 Points
Decanted 45 minutes, left uncorked 3 hours before drinking. Side-by-side comparison with a ‘09 Justin Isosceles Reserve. Lovely aromatics, more red fruits on the palate with cassis. This is ready to go now and works well without food. Seems squarely in its drinking window, but I think it will last to 2023. Other than the different grapes selected for this wine, it seems like it must have some different barrel treatment with more neutral casks. Should last into the 2020’s. Really nice stuff!
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11/20/2017 - wconnolly Likes this wine: 90 Points
Typical Isosceles. Big, bold and spicy. Deep ruby color. Full bodied. Nose of tar, creosote and cedar. Ample amounts of red fruit, cinnamon, pepper, clove on the palate. Great accompaniment to spicy bratwurst and charcoal grilled hamburgers. May be a bit young yet. Glad I have three more bottles.
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9/2/2017 - wconnolly Likes this wine: 90 Points
Deep, opaque garnet in the glass. Cedar and spice on the nose. Big and very full bodied. On the palate, this somewhat resembles a Shiraz in the notes of pepper and clove on the palate but is smoother and without the metallic overtones of a young Shiraz. Drinking nicely and a great accompaniment to barbecued ribs.
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7/29/2017 - VinoViking Likes this wine: 93 Points
Delicious - drinking really nicely now. Big berry flavors. Rich without being harsh. Nice texture and mouthfeel. Wish I had more...
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7/15/2017 - MAXIMUM SATISFACTION wrote: 88 Points
In similar vein as the Caymus regular bottling. Big and syrupy with extracted red fruit, prunes, and toasted vanilla. Still substantial alcoholic heat with a major medical notes of menthol and glycerin. In my opinion this has turned a little harsh with time.
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6/12/2017 - winefloat wrote: 92 Points
Still lots of life left in this wine, decant for at least an hour. Typical Isosceles with bright fruit, vanilla, great Paso cab blend. Last bottle of the original Isosceles in my cellar.
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5/22/2017 - Krembil93 wrote: 91 Points
Needs a 2 hour decant. High in cassis and berry flavour but only an average bouquet after the decant. Smooth drinking wine really enjoyable.
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4/9/2017 - td1836 Likes this wine: 92 Points
Rich and dark fruits, really smooth integrated tannins. The alcohol, though high, is pretty balanced. Nice length on the finish. Wanting a little more acidity which would have pushed it up a point for me.
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3/16/2017 - Power Forward wrote: 92 Points
Deep, rich, dark fruit on the nose. Well balanced across the palette with fine tannins. Lingering finish. Glad I waited for it to age a bit.
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2/22/2017 - 312 Likes this wine: 90 Points
Deep ruby. Sweet black cherry, raspberry and leather on the nose. Pronounced legs. Rich, full and well balanced with integrated tannins and fruit. Notes of dark pitted fruits like plum and black cherry, cassis, spice and leather. Long finish. Drinking very well. At least as good on the second day. Would buy again.
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12/13/2016 - jjh49 Likes this wine: 93 Points
Drinking great right now. Almost a bit of a Syrah type. I'd put this up against some top Napa cabs. Ripe fruit and berries.
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11/4/2016 - Cuellar's Cellar Likes this wine: 90 Points
A good year and bottle. Deep color.
The wine looks brick colored. The legs are medium. There is no sediment in the bottle. It smells like black pepper and burnt match. It tastes like stoniness, bark and clove. The body is medium/full. The wine has coarse texture. The wine finishes long. The wine has medium acidity.
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9/26/2016 - KAP Likes this wine: 90 Points
Still drinking well enough.
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9/18/2016 - wild2inca Likes this wine: 91 Points
Well, the second bottle didn't last long....paired with a cabernet marinade Tri-Tip on the grill, excellent.
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9/4/2016 - wild2inca Likes this wine: 91 Points
Excellent as most Justin wines. Smooth, dark cherry aroma, velvety finish. We have one more bottle to save for a few more years.
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9/1/2016 - jy_wine Likes this wine: 94 Points
Really drinking well right now. Paired with ribeye steak.
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8/14/2016 - Tannic Monster Likes this wine: 92 Points
This wine is in its wheelhouse...drinking beautifully. Full bodied with fine tannins, dark cherry, vanilla, spice, plum, cassis...with a nice medium finish. Just a great cabernet all the way around.
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7/16/2016 - familydoc wrote:
Nose: big dark fruit
Taste: nice fruit, lively tannins, and long finish
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2/28/2016 - ev3rthesame Likes this wine: 93 Points
This was beautiful. Fruity nose and soft luscious tannins.
Opened up nicely in the glass. Really surprised how delicious this wine was!
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2/26/2016 - TrinaN Likes this wine: 89 Points
a 2009 bottle drunk in Feb 2016: this wine has definitely started on the downhill. Nice dark berry but it's missing a few notes. Two more bottles in the fridge and I'm going to have to drink them quickly.
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1/22/2016 - Martin Redmond Likes this wine: 89 Points
Spicy dark fruit and dark chocolate aromas. On the palate it's medium-full bodied and smooth with black cherry, plum, dark chocolate and vanilla flavors. Medium long finish. It's delicious with great fruit, but I prefer a wine with more acidity. Blend of 94% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Cabernet Franc, 3% Merlot
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12/5/2015 - Soche Likes this wine: 92 Points
Vintage Paso Robles- fruit forward with juicy black and red berry fruit. Balanced with bright acidity but very kettle tannins remaining. You just can't go wrong with this wine-if you like this style.
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10/18/2015 - BigTex22 Likes this wine: 92 Points
Solid wine, drinking well. Will easily go another 5+ years. Nice bouquet on the nose and plenty of fruit. VERY GOOD.
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8/25/2015 - Coachron13 wrote: flawed
Spoiled. Down the drain.
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8/7/2015 - Stevethebeav Likes this wine: 92 Points
This really impressed me. I really like bordeaux style wines and this is a great one. Ripe dark fruit and molassis. tannins are refined and the finish is long and powerful
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8/4/2015 - DrakkarNoir Does not like this wine:
Cassis and espresso on the nose. Sweet and syrupy in the mouth. Find this big, alcoholic, and lacking complexity. 15.5% abv.
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7/12/2015 - pvewino Likes this wine: 93 Points
I really like this wine. Opened and let sit for two hours prior to drinking. This was enough time for the wine to really open up. I agree that it is a full bodied wine with a wonderful flavor of dark fruits and chocolate/coffee. No need to wait any longer on this one. It is drinking extremely well now.
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7/10/2015 - Vinophiliac559 wrote: 93 Points
92-93 pts; really coming along nice, mint, sweet tobacco, dark fruit
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5/18/2015 - Mech-E Likes this wine: 95 Points
Gorgeous, thick, juicy, just the thing for Sunday dinner. Reminded me of some solid Oakville offerings....
The oak here is not subtle, but it does well to balance the fruit. Tannins are in check an nicely integrated. Decanting recommended but I would not filter it. The dusty tannins clogged the Rabbit and I just went without it and loved every last glass.
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4/13/2015 - brandywine Likes this wine: 91 Points
We gathered some lucky friends to celebrate hubby’s birthday and poured a vertical of 2009, 2008, 2007, and 2006. The 2009 and 2006 were the overwhelming favorites. The 2009 is drinking beautifully now (my husband’s favorite of the group) but has enough structure to age for a while. The 2009 had a significantly higher percentage of cabernet sauvignon compared to the other vintages. The 2006 is a lovely balance of soft tannins and blue fruit. This was my personal favorite. The 2008 is still a nice wine but seemed somewhat off balance and tight compared to the other vintages (even the younger 2009). Maybe it’s the addition of Petite Verdot, but it definitely stuck out as the least favorite. Some time in the decanter did help it open up, so I will hold on to what I have for a few more years to see what happens.
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3/18/2015 - Lillikoi Likes this wine: 96 Points
Velvety and rich
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2/28/2015 - gfm10 Likes this wine: 94 Points
Very nice and elegant wine.
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11/24/2014 - H. Eugene Likes this wine: 95 Points
A beautiful wine. If you appreciate Cab-Sauvignon, then you must try to wine. A very serious wine, heavy, robust. I felt like I could chew this wine. Upon initial opening the bouquet was incredible. Just smelling this wine I knew I had a winner. Strong alcohol on the nose. I decanted it for 2 hours 30 mins and it really opened up!! Great legs, great taste, very deep-ruby red color. It paired well with barbecue chicken. We drank it over 2 hours and the wine continued to evolve in the glass!! This was my last bottle and I wish I had more of this wine.
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11/7/2014 - PinotPaul Likes this wine: 91 Points
Wonderful! Nice complexity and a solid Cab. Aged nicely.
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11/3/2014 - newkid17 Likes this wine: 91 Points
This was spicy on the nose, but full of flavor and with a medium finish. The initial flavors was dark black cherry, some smoke and cocoa with a chewy red currants. Some of the bottle had a green pepper flavor on the finish. Mark - try this one!
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10/4/2014 - KAP wrote: 92 Points
Always a treat.
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9/14/2014 - franm Likes this wine: 89 Points
cheers - big, bold, fruity californiacab with a long finish....if you love californiacabs, you'll enjoy this wine, because it's a very nice U.S. wine......if you prefer Old World wines, maybe you'll wonder why everyone rates this over 90 points.....nice wine, but no way I'd spend this much money to drink this.... (it was a gift)...it lacks finesse and subtlety...
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9/5/2014 - BigTex22 Likes this wine: 94 Points
Decanted - vigorously shaken. Nose is black berry, big, bold...cardamom. Some cinnamon. Dark and inky. In the mouth, big, brooding, berry-ful (yeah, I know it's not a word), luscious. My wife loved this. I mean LOVED it, like the look when you tell her "no honey, I got the kids this morning...you go back to sleep". Paso Robles beautastical. Drink now if you're ready for the ride, or wait a few years. EXCELLENT.
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8/16/2014 - Baron Slick wrote: 93 Points
Deep crimson appearance. Juicy, long, and persistent with layers and layers of aromas and flavors. It masks its high alcohol with plump, luscious cherries, red currants, cocoa, herbs, smoky mesquite, and hints of decaying leaves and sandalwood. Displays crushed rock minerality, impeccable balance, a back note of black coffee, and a warm, tasty, red fruit finish. This is hedonistic. 93+
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8/11/2014 - jimmyrice14 wrote: 92 Points
Fantastic as usual....
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8/4/2014 - ltadd wrote: 81 Points
Average
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5/28/2014 - alohashirt Likes this wine: 89 Points
Nice plummy nose, begins with fruit and quickly morphed into a tart cherry, almost italian tasting wine with a long finish. This is a nice wine, though it was overshadowed by the 2011 Double Eagle.
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5/26/2014 - Castle Peak wrote: 93 Points
Wine of the night.
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5/22/2014 - jkvedar wrote: 92 Points
Echoing others. Bright fruit. Good structure. Slightly hot on the finish, but a really fine wine.
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4/11/2014 - Arch57 Likes this wine: 92 Points
This was a very good wine but with every sip, even after decanting, I could still feel the strong tannins so I know this was will get better after a few more years. However, my daughter came home from NYC for the weekend and I save bottles that she buys for me as gifts to share with her and my wife so I popped this one. After all that is what good wine is all about. Cheers.
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4/6/2014 - Trolson wrote: 95 Points
One of our favorites: nose, body and so, so smooth. Get it if you can find it.
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3/27/2014 - BobMilton Likes this wine: 92 Points
Very nice - good fruit, complex, smooth tannins. Just a touch of heat on the finish
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3/23/2014 - garygailkrivan Likes this wine: 93 Points
Very fruit forward, still a bit young, although this had some big notes of chocolate and dark cherries, some tobacco.
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2/25/2014 - Castle Peak wrote: 94 Points
Poured through a vinturi for a 2 hour decant. Beautiful deep purple color with a nose of rich blackberry cobbler and violets. A fruit forward wine with a harmonious balance of velvety textures, restrained tannins and acidity. Flavors of ripe berries, chocolate, mild oak, soft leather and tobacco. Finish is full, long and elegantly enjoyable.
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2/21/2014 - awise45 wrote: 93 Points
Do love this wine. Well-blended and balanced, with a quick burst of fruit followed by a long, spread-out finish.
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2/13/2014 - jeginmt Likes this wine: 93 Points
Excellent fruit, well balanced tannins and acidity, full body, dark ruby color, our guests thought it was wonderful, and I agree.
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2/6/2014 - KAP wrote: 93 Points
Smooth as silk.
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2/1/2014 - ddsolomon2000 wrote: 93 Points
Opened for 1 hour and decanted before serving. Absolutely fantastic. I wish I had more.
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1/26/2014 - wconnolly Likes this wine: 90 Points
Big, full bodied with pepper, cardamon and oak on the palate. Robust but integrated tannins. Super with a heavy pot roast on a cold snowy night.
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1/23/2014 - Tedcarlo wrote: 95 Points
Beautiful fruit forward wine. Smooth, balanced with excellent length.
No tannic bite or spice flavor. Popped and poured.
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12/4/2013 - winetennis wrote:
wonderful bottle of wine at decide Santa Barbara
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11/15/2013 - lanche50 wrote: 90 Points
even better the next day
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11/5/2013 - Life At Your Leisure 🍷 Likes this wine: 94 Points
Wow, this is the best Isosceles by far! Notes of dark chocolate are persistent all throughout from start to finish with hints of dark cherry, tobacco and espresso on the smooth, velvety palate. Very supple to the brink of being chunky, but holds its balance. Finishes long on round, smooth tannin with just a hint of vanilla, cedar and peppermint. A must try! Drink now with 30 minutes decant until 2024. 94+
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10/4/2013 - Fire Bill wrote: 94 Points
Amazing... But still young
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9/29/2013 - Trolson wrote: 95 Points
One of our absolute favorites! And, make sure to decant for one plus hours to open up flavor.
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9/20/2013 - khunchris wrote: 93 Points
Popped and poured. It was ready right out of the bottle. I was pretty impressed. Crushed berries- maybe black fruits, fresh, floral, firm, nice texture/mouthfeel. Good finish. Glad I have a few more and look forward to seeing how this evolves. Would recommend.
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8/24/2013 - sdrum Likes this wine: 91 Points
Fantastic aromas, but a bit different tasting for something that is almost entirely Cab. Earthy and mellow. More coffee than fruit. But still utterly enjoyable.
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8/11/2013 - spo Likes this wine: 91 Points
Raspberry, strawberry, a little jammy, with coconut and some mineral. Better without food but stands up to meat.
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8/1/2013 - WallWino1 wrote: 88 Points
Delicious, really easy drinking cab. Great price point for the quality.
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7/22/2013 - awineo Likes this wine: 92 Points
Ok so I have been panning the 09 and loving the 10. Well this bottle of 09 rocked. Solid fruit and tannins. What I expected but did not get until this bottle. Based on this I bought a 6 pack of the Reserve and it is even better.
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7/1/2013 - awineo Likes this wine: 91 Points
Did a back to back comparison with the 2010. I personally like the 2010 better, but the 09 drank great. Just not as "big" as the 10.
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6/27/2013 - jshufelt wrote: 90 Points
Pop and pour, which was not fair to this wine, but so it goes. In the glass, dark red with a slight purplish tint at the rim. On the nose, a mix of mocha and currants. On the palate, more currants, a mild touch of oak, bitter cocoa, and a slightly sweet note on the finish. A hit with the crowd, I think I wanted a bit more...
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6/9/2013 - awise45 wrote: 93 Points
Really rich and smooth. Never disappoints.
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5/14/2013 - Cuellar's Cellar Likes this wine: 90 Points
Appearance: Dark ruby in the glass with a violet rim
Aroma: An alluring, rich mix of ripe black currants and berries faceted with vanilla, cinnamon and cocoa highlights.
Palate: Full bodied, complex black fruit of lush currants, and cherry layered with licorice and vanilla spice with chocolate, roasted coffee, and tobacco. The finish is extremely long and complex, showing firm plush tannins that bring everything together making it easy to drink it now, but implying a great future.
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5/10/2013 - WhereWineHow wrote: 89 Points
Mixed feelings - most enjoyed, I did not.
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5/4/2013 - awineo wrote: 90 Points
After the 2010 being so good I decided to try the 09. Not even close. OK, but not great. One thing about Justin is it is VERY vintage specific on all their wines. I highly recommend the 2010 Isosceles.... skip the 09.
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4/19/2013 - Mtpisgah Likes this wine: 91 Points
Solid wine for the price. I hope Fuji water doesn't ruin Justin.
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4/18/2013 - awineo Likes this wine: 93 Points
Great bottle. Big fruit and tannins with nice balance. Powerful wine.
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4/17/2013 - BobMilton Likes this wine: 92 Points
Good fruit (mostly black) with tannins under control.
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4/7/2013 - kirschke Likes this wine: 93 Points
Luscious fruits, soft tannins and exceptional mouthfeel/finish over a 3 hour sipping session...
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4/4/2013 - Yack Man Likes this wine: 91 Points
I love Big, bold, concentrated, fruit forward Napa Cabernets and to my surprise, this red blend meets my standards. Solid fruit and smooth tannins, rich, with dark berry flavors. Opulent, and nicely balanced with dark chocolate notes. A very pleasing red wine blend and I wonder how much better there Reserve might be? I will have to find out. 90.7 points
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3/28/2013 - sdwineguru Likes this wine: 90 Points
Dark purple; big berry/jammy nose; herbaceous; light mint; ripe grapes (15.5 alc; 94% Cab, 3 Cab Franc, 3 Merlot); big body; tight tannins; big fruit extract; a little hot, alcohol finish. w/ribs
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3/19/2013 - awineo Likes this wine: 92 Points
Going to visit Justin this summer. First bottle of the 2009. Needs more time as expected, but had solid fruit and tannins.
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3/10/2013 - Plus Ultra Likes this wine: 93 Points
Very smooth with rich, dark berry flavors and vanilla undertones. Was glad I tried this based on other CT reviewers feedback.
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3/1/2013 - BrandiLove Likes this wine: 94 Points
I guess I should start this tasting note by saying that the 2009 Justin Isosceles is my #1 sub $100 bottle of wine. I simply cannot say enough about how delicious this wine is.
I honestly cannot say if it tastes like cassis or currant since I have never actually eaten either by themselves LOL! What I can say is that on the nose this wine reminds me a lot of the Caymus Cabernet. It is opulent, sexy and extremely balanced. This quality extends to the palate where I taste extremely balanced flavors of cinnamon, dark chocolate, dark fruits and coffee. The tannins are soft and supple and there is this terrific quality where it leaves this delicious bakers chocolate "dryness" on my tongue. It's not minerality, it's not tannic but something leaves this fantastic dry, sweet, bitter yet smooth finish. I'm honestly not sure how else to describe it.
The best part is the finish is incredibly long. I sear I can taste it on my lips an hour later and I'm hugely thankful for that!
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2/25/2013 - kirschke Likes this wine: 93 Points
Decanted 2 hours and it was a perfect example of a California Bordeaux varietal...
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2/19/2013 - Double-A wrote: 85 Points
Ripe red currant, warming alcohol, vanilla and cedar spice nose. Full, ripe and gripping; hot alcohol and chewy tannins. Hyper-extracted.
3/5
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2/19/2013 - thelostverse wrote: 90 Points
Opened by VinT or friend at Glen Prairie. I thought this suffered in comparison to other old world bottles opened this night. Very fruit forward with raspberry and red fruits. I would like to revisit this on an evening when it is the only bottle open.
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2/19/2013 - Vino Me wrote: 89 Points
VinT's friend brought this. The only other Isosceles I've had was the 1999 which I liked better. This wine stood out from the rest of the reds at this dinner (even the 2003 Neal) because it was much more forward and new world in style. Big, thick and creamy. Fruity with black and red berries. I would give this wine time and it should improve and round out some of the harsh edges. 89+ points
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2/18/2013 - Grillgod Likes this wine: 90 Points
Solid and elegant red fruit profile. Not as big and chewy as earlier vintages I've tried. A little more elegant bodied similar to their Justification wine. Finished half bottle second day and started to get a lot of dark chocolate from the oak. Another year or two will do this one some good.
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2/14/2013 - DrewM wrote: 91 Points
Deep purple with a ruby rim...sour cherry, black currant, blackberry pie, with a little mint and leather in a very pretty nose. On the palate, black cherry, blackberry, dark chocolate, and leather. At the back, every bit of the 15.5% alcohol comes out to play. Very good, still youthful wine...would have been even better were it not for the hot finish. I'll save my other two bottles for at least a couple years down the line.
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2/8/2013 - awise45 wrote: 93 Points
Another year, another great wine. More subtle than years past but still vibrant and interesting. Cab dominated, rich and dark, with a long finish.
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1/27/2013 - IconeWino wrote: 93 Points
Notes based on consumption last night. A little smokier than most high-end California Cabs. Loved by all. Drinking lovely now.
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1/26/2013 - Grinner wrote: 92 Points
PHMG WAG Paso Robles (Paso Lyon): Deep cassis, plum, black cherry, and earth notes "win the day" (oh wait Chip Kelly moved on...). I liked the balance, length, and grip. 15.5% etoh well hidden, tons of time but you don't hafta wait.
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1/22/2013 - mdonath Likes this wine: 93 Points
I think it is ready now with a good airing. Great balance of fruit and tannin. Smooth, long finish. Vanilla notes in nose. Can be a bit pricely, but I got it at $45, which is very fair.
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1/19/2013 - Mmbratt Likes this wine: 92 Points
The wine looks Ruby colored. The legs are Medium. It tastes like Black currant (cassis), and Cherry. The body is Medium/Full. The wine has Silky texture. The wine finishes Medium.
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1/14/2013 - StainedGlass wrote: 92 Points
Dark ruby / purple. Rich blackberry and black currant fruits, coupled with moderate oak notes and moderate tannins. Lush, but not over the top, this is one of the better balanced Isosceles I can recall, with tea leaf, spice, vanilla notes giving it a nice complexity.
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1/12/2013 - Griffeyfan04 wrote: 94 Points
Pop 'n pour. Very nice fruit on the nose and sweetness to it. It drank beautifully from the start. I think you can absolutely drink this now or wait several years for the sweetness to come off a little. I don't think this will be the longest lived Isosceles ever but it is a nice one. The tannins are smooth in this. Enjoy this one now or 7+ years from now
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1/1/2013 - Cuellar's Cellar wrote: 91 Points
- Ruby color with medium forming legs - Appearance: Dark ruby in the glass with a violet rim
Aroma: An alluring, rich mix of ripe black currants and berries faceted with vanilla, cinnamon and cocoa highlights.
Palate: Full bodied, complex black fruit of lush currants, and cherry layered with licorice and vanilla spice with chocolate, roasted coffee, and tobacco. The finish is extremely long and complex, showing firm plush tannins that bring everything together making it easy to drink it now, but implying a great future.
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12/25/2012 - cstir Likes this wine: 91 Points
Smooth on opening with good complexity and depth; enjoyed without decanting; layered dark red fruit; sustained finish.
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12/1/2012 - yonster24 wrote:
Decanted for a few hours. Deep violet color to it. Nose of Toasty oak, black currant, vanilla. Full bodied and silky smooth on the balate. Big wine, but not flabby. Getting some oak spice on the finish. Very well balanced, tannins and great acidity hold up to the fruit of this baby. Will age for a while.
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11/24/2012 - InternationalWineReport wrote: 94 Points
94 POINTS
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11/22/2012 - Trolson wrote: 94 Points
A treat each time we drink it. Great wine and value!
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11/3/2012 - Kaizah Likes this wine: 92 Points
Can easily lay down for another couple of years. Decant if drinking soon.
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10/6/2012 - JDV.DDSPHD wrote: 94 Points
Big black fruit. Black cherries, black currants some cassis & blackberries on the nose & palate. Loved it. Huge finish that lingered forever. Low acidity & made my mouth water. If its this good now what in the world will it be like in 10yrs. Breathtaking.
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9/16/2012 - Mallards wrote: 84 Points
Big flabby, rich, really tasted more like a Zin than a Cab. With 94% Cab in the mix, the makers must have been impressed with it. We were not. Sit on this for awhile - or like us, don't buy anymore.
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9/9/2012 - Martin Redmond wrote: 91 Points
Recap of Family Winemakers of California; 2012 San Francisco Tasting-Best of the Meritage Reds: Spicy dark fruit and dark chocolate aromas. On the palate it's medium-full bodied and smooth with black cherry, plum, dark chocolate and vanilla flavors. Medium long finish. Blend of 94% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Cabernet Franc, 3% Merlot
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9/9/2012 - Cuellar's Cellar wrote: 90 Points
- Crimsom color with medium forming legs and aromas of blackberry and bell pepper. It's overly tannic and has flavours of black pepper and blackberry with a light/medium body. Polished texture with a long finish - So far, initial smell and taste is very strong, and overwhelming. Needs to breath for at least an hour. To me this will definitely get better with age. For surely 2013-15. Very tannic.
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9/6/2012 - brouigu1 wrote: 91 Points
A big bold furit forward blend... Good tannin structure, decent balance with medium hang time.
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9/1/2012 - vegasoenophile wrote: 91 Points
2 years on French oak and 6 mo in bottle prior to release.
Nice cassis, menthol, vanilla and cocoa notes on the nose. Elegant on nose and palate. Flavors of lush currant and black cherry with light licorice, vanilla, spice, roacted cocoa and coffee with hints of tobacco. Nice wine.
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8/15/2012 - Lee Fining wrote: 92 Points
Rich, dark garnet red in color. Bountiful nose of dark fruit. The wine is smooth, well balanced and follows with flavors that harmonize quite well with the nose. This is a great stand alone wine or can be served with meats that are willing to fight for their own attention.
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7/27/2012 - jusdavi wrote: 93 Points
8 hour decant. All around winner
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7/13/2012 - PinotPaul wrote: 90 Points
Wonderful nose of deep berries and cedar. Sooth mouthfeel with long finish. Slight bite that will mellow with time.
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6/21/2012 - goaljnky wrote: 94 Points
Evening one of the vacation. A good start.
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6/6/2012 - Pbuschur wrote: 95 Points
This may be my favorite year for Isosceles. When I finished the bottle on day 2 it was even better which was amazing.
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6/6/2012 - Dorcea wrote: 90 Points
- Brick color with medium forming legs. It's balanced with a medium/full body. Round texture with a long finish - This is a delicious full bodied smash mouth red wine with a judicious amount of new French oak(hence the heavy vanilla on the nose). Very nice representation of a Bordeaux style blend from California! Highly recommend with anything beefy or heavy! you'll love it!
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5/11/2012 - Gntloryntl wrote: 94 Points
2nd time having this one over last three months. Nothing but an outstanding wine. Very smooth, despite the youth of this wine. The fruit is strong, but not over-powering. Solid wine, all-around. Dark fruit, that was held up by a balanced oak flow throughout the glass. I hope this ages well, but very drinkable now.
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4/26/2012 - Danielklett wrote: 95 Points
Excellent as always
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4/20/2012 - Weston3220 wrote: 86 Points
Justin Vineyard Winery Visit (Justin Winery): Big Brrry Fruit, Very Focused nose, rich floral, oak not over bearing, creamy vanilla, egg spice, chewy
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3/1/2012 - tp096255 wrote: 92 Points
9.2+
Great structure. Nice young, but will age well.
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2/14/2012 - Gntloryntl Likes this wine: 94 Points
Full Body, Huge Dark fruit on the nose. I have had many Isosceles and this one is up there...Vinturi and in the decanter...Very well balanced, with a strong, solid fruit finish. The oak is there, but dark fruit dominates...Having it with aged, English cheddar brought out a pungency that wasn't noticeable before the cheese. Hint of sweetness on the nose, currant/cassis on the mid-palate. I want to have this in a year
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