Review: 2023 Justin Sauvignon Blanc and Rose
Justin is back with two new releases from its 2023 vintage, both fruit-forward wines designed for sipping as this long hot summer comes to a close.
2023 Justin Sauvignon Blanc Central Coast – Massively tropical, a contrast to last year’s more restrained wine. The big pineapple rush up front moves into coconut cream in short order, giving the wine some serious pina colada vibes. As it settles down just a bit, notes of guava emerge, followed by a heavy punch of white flowers, taking the wine to a semi-sweet finish. It’s not overly complex but it is tailor-made for hot weather (like right now). B+ / $18
2023 Justin Rose Central Coast – As usual, this is mostly syrah, turned into rose wine. Juicy and bright with fruit, this is a strawberry bomb like few roses I’ve encountered in recent years. Creamy, with lots of vanilla, it comes across with a close approximation to a fruit-topped cheesecake, with some preserved Meyer lemon sprinkled on top. A light touch of saline and, later, some hibiscus floral elements give the wine a little nuance, but not much. Definitely more of a jam session than we’ve seen in prior vintages, for better or worse. B / $20
2023 Justin Rose Central Coast
$20
