Justin Justification Paso Robles 2014

94 points and 'Top 100 Wines of 2017 (#24),' Wine Spectator: "[$50 list] Smooth-textured, graceful and refined, with a tenderness to the texture and tannins. Features a warm, inviting mix of red and dark berry flavors and subtle shades of licorice, light mocha and savory herbs, revealing floral scents and a long, persistent finish that echoes the core essence. Cabernet Franc and Merlot. Drink now through 2035. (10/31/17)"

93 points Wine Enthusiast: "[$50 list] This blend of 55% Cabernet Franc and 45% Merlot is quite ripe on the nose, with lavish black-currant fruit as well as dried dill and fennel touches. Impressively soft and thick, the tannic structure coats every corner of the mouth, carrying flavors of black cherry, mint-laced chocolate and black truffle. Alcohol 15.5%. (Sep 2017)"

Producer notes: "55% Cabernet Franc, 45% Merlot. Appearance: Deep ruby core going to a lighter, more purple rim with full tears that show moderate staining on the glass. Aroma: Aromatic with ripe blackcurrant, sweet black and red cherry fruit, baking spice, licorice, cocoa accented with attractive pencil shaving, and camphor notes. Palate: Full bodied, with black and red currant and cherry fruit, and attractive vanilla and cinnamon spice on entry and savory, smoky dried herbs with chocolate and cedar accents appearing in mid-palate. The texture of the wine is very clean and crisp with woody notes, bright cherry fruit and balancing tannins that focus the wine through its long, complex finish. The 2014 Justification is an elegant, beautifully balanced and complex wine that respects dishes that might be overpowered by a deeper, richer wines like veal with a morel cream sauce, or pork tenderloin with an herbed berry reduction. Alcohol 15.5%."