Justin Winery: A Guide to Their Award-Winning Wines

Justin Winery is a world-renowned winery located in the heart of California. Founded in 1981, the winery has been producing world-class wines using Bordeaux-style varieties combined with traditional winemaking practices. The winery's flagship wine is the iconic ISOSCELES blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Merlot.

The estate vineyard and winery of Justin Winery offer visitors a chance to enjoy estate-grown wines, tours, tastings, and experiences on a scenic property with stunning views. Visitors can learn about the history, winemaking, and stories of JUSTIN's iconic blend ISOSCELES, and other varietals. The winery also offers luxury five-star accommodations at the JUST Inn, which includes exclusive benefits such as premium tastings, preferred access to The Restaurant at JUSTIN, daily farm-to-table breakfast, and more.

Justin Winery has won numerous awards for its wines, including the Cabernet Sauvignon which was named America's #1 Luxury Cabernet Sauvignon. The winery is known for providing quality wines that respect their origin, express varietal character, and provide value. With its stunning views, world-class wines, and luxurious accommodations, Justin Winery is a must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts visiting California.

History and Founder

Justin Baldwin

Justin Baldwin, a former investment and international banker, founded Justin Winery in 1981. Baldwin's passion for wine led him to purchase 160 acres west of Paso Robles on California's Central Coast and plant his estate vineyards. Baldwin's vision was to create a world-class winery that produced exceptional wines, and he succeeded. Justin Winery has won numerous awards and accolades for its wines and is recognized as one of the top wineries in California.

Pioneering Spirit

Justin Baldwin's pioneering spirit and commitment to quality have been the driving force behind Justin Winery's success. Baldwin was one of the first winemakers to recognize the potential of Paso Robles as a premier wine region. He planted his vineyards on the west side of Paso Robles, where the soil and climate are ideal for growing Bordeaux-style varietals. Baldwin's vineyards are planted with Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot, which are used to produce Justin Winery's flagship wine, Isosceles.

Baldwin's commitment to quality is evident in every aspect of Justin Winery's operations. The winery uses only the finest grapes, and the wines are aged in French oak barrels to enhance their complexity and depth. Justin Winery's dedication to excellence has earned it a reputation as one of the top wineries in California.

In conclusion, Justin Baldwin's vision and pioneering spirit have made Justin Winery one of the most respected wineries in California. Baldwin's commitment to quality and his passion for wine continue to drive the winery's success.

Vineyards and Terroir

Paso Robles Location

JUSTIN Winery is located in Paso Robles, California, a region known for its diverse soils, elevation, and annual rainfall. The winery's vineyards are situated on the west side of Paso Robles, where the days are warm and the nights are cool. This unique climate allows for the grapes to ripen slowly, resulting in wines with exceptional flavor and complexity.

Fossilized Limestone

One of the key factors that contribute to the distinctive character of JUSTIN Winery's wines is the presence of fossilized limestone in the soil. This limestone, which was formed millions of years ago when the area was covered by an ancient sea, provides the vines with a mineral-rich foundation that enhances the flavor and structure of the grapes.

Grape Varietals

JUSTIN Winery specializes in Bordeaux-style varieties, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Merlot. These grape varietals thrive in Paso Robles' warm days and cool nights, resulting in wines that are rich and complex. The winery also produces Chardonnay and Pinot Noir in Sonoma County, expanding its portfolio outside of Paso Robles for the first time ever.

To ensure the highest quality grapes, JUSTIN Winery practices sustainable farming techniques, including using cover crops, composting, and drip irrigation. The winery's commitment to sustainability and terroir-driven winemaking has earned it numerous accolades and awards over the years.

Winemaking Philosophy

Justin Winery has a winemaking philosophy that combines old-world methods with new-world technology to produce exceptional wines. This approach is reflected in everything they do, from hand-harvesting their grapes to aging their wines in small barrels made of French oak.

Old-World Methods

Justin Winery believes that the best wines come from a combination of traditional techniques and modern technology. They use hand-harvesting to ensure that only the best grapes make it into their wines. This labor-intensive process allows them to carefully select the grapes that will produce the best flavors and aromas in their wines.

Once the grapes are harvested, Justin Winery uses small-barrel aging to enhance the flavors and aromas of their wines. They believe that this technique allows the wine to develop more complex flavors and aromas than larger barrels would. Additionally, they use French oak barrels, which are known for their ability to impart subtle flavors and aromas to the wine.

New World Technology

In addition to traditional techniques, Justin Winery also uses modern technology to produce their wines. They use state-of-the-art equipment to carefully monitor the fermentation process and ensure that the wine is developing properly. They also use computerized systems to track the aging process and ensure that the wine is aging at the optimal rate.

By combining old-world methods with new-world technology, Justin Winery is able to produce wines that are both traditional and innovative. They are able to create wines that are true to their roots, while also incorporating new techniques and technologies to produce wines that are unique and exceptional.

Wine Portfolio

Justin Vineyards & Winery is known for its world-class wines that are crafted using Bordeaux grape varieties. The winery's wine portfolio includes a range of wines that cater to every palate and occasion.

Bordeaux-Style Blends

Justin Vineyards & Winery's Bordeaux-style blends are some of the most sought-after wines in the world. The iconic ISOSCELES blend is a classic Bordeaux-style blend that is made using Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc grapes. This wine is known for its rich flavors of blackberry, cassis, and vanilla, and its smooth, velvety finish.

Limited Production Varietals

In addition to its Bordeaux-style blends, Justin Vineyards & Winery also produces a range of limited production varietals that are highly sought after by wine enthusiasts. The winery's Chardonnay is a crowd favorite, with its flavors of tropical fruit, citrus, and vanilla, and its smooth, creamy finish. The Sauvignon Blanc is another popular varietal, known for its crisp acidity and flavors of grapefruit, lime, and green apple.

Justin Vineyards & Winery also produces a range of Cabernet Sauvignon varietals that are highly acclaimed by wine critics. The winery's Cabernet Sauvignon is a full-bodied wine with flavors of black cherry, blackberry, and cassis, and a long, smooth finish. The winery also produces a Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve, which is made from the best grapes of the vintage and is aged in French oak barrels for 18 months.

Overall, Justin Vineyards & Winery's wine portfolio is a testament to the winery's commitment to crafting world-class wines that are loved by wine enthusiasts around the world.

Iconic Wines

Isosceles

One of the most iconic wines produced by Justin Winery is the Isosceles. It is a Bordeaux-style blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Merlot. The wine is aged in French oak barrels for 21 months, resulting in a complex and rich flavor profile. The Isosceles has consistently received high ratings from wine critics and enthusiasts alike, making it one of the most sought-after wines from the winery.

Justin Chardonnay

Another standout wine from Justin Winery is the Justin Chardonnay. This wine is made using grapes sourced from the Central Coast of California. The wine is fermented in French oak barrels, giving it a creamy texture and a subtle hint of vanilla. The Justin Chardonnay has a bright and refreshing flavor profile with notes of green apple, lemon, and pear.

Both Isosceles and Justin Chardonnay are prime examples of the quality and craftsmanship that Justin Winery is known for. Whether you are a seasoned wine connoisseur or a casual wine drinker, these wines are sure to impress.

Wine Society and Membership

Benefits

Joining the Wine Society at Justin Winery comes with a range of benefits. Members receive twice-yearly shipments of wine, a 20% discount on all wines and merchandise, exclusive access to limited-time offers, and on-property events. Members also get access to a dedicated wine concierge who can help with recommendations, food pairings, and more.

One of the most significant benefits of the Wine Society membership is the opportunity to taste and purchase limited-release wines that are not available to the general public. Members also have access to the winery's library wines, which are older vintages that have been aged to perfection.

How to Join

Joining the Wine Society at Justin Winery is easy and straightforward. Interested parties can visit the winery's website and fill out an online application form. Alternatively, they can contact the winery's customer service team, who will be happy to assist with the application process.

The cost of membership varies depending on the type of membership selected. Members can choose from mixed, reds only, or Isosceles membership options. Each option comes with a different number of bottles and delivery frequency. The cost of each shipment is per shipment and excludes shipping charges.

Overall, joining the Wine Society at Justin Winery is an excellent way to experience the best that the winery has to offer. Members get access to exclusive wines and events, as well as a range of other benefits that make the membership worthwhile.

Tasting and Culinary Experience

Justin Winery offers a unique tasting and culinary experience for its visitors. The winery has two main areas for wine tasting, the Estate Tasting Room and The Restaurant at Justin.

The Restaurant at Justin

The Restaurant at Justin is a Michelin-starred restaurant located in the winery's estate. The restaurant offers a farm-to-table experience with a focus on local ingredients. The culinary team at The Restaurant at Justin blends traditional and nouveau styles to create a unique dining experience. Visitors can enjoy a variety of dishes that pair well with Justin's award-winning wines.

Estate Tasting Room

The Estate Tasting Room is located in the winery's estate and offers visitors a chance to taste a selection of Justin's award-winning Bordeaux-style wines. The tasting room is open daily, and visitors can choose from different tasting options. The tasting room also offers a panoramic view of the vineyards, making it a perfect place to relax and enjoy a glass of wine.

Reservations

Reservations are required for both The Restaurant at Justin and the Estate Tasting Room. Visitors can make reservations through the winery's website or by calling the winery directly. It is recommended to make reservations in advance, especially during peak season.

Overall, Justin Winery's tasting and culinary experience is a must-try for wine enthusiasts and foodies alike. With its Michelin-starred restaurant, award-winning wines, and beautiful estate, Justin Winery offers a unique experience that visitors won't forget.

Sustainability and Innovation

Justin Winery is committed to sustainability and innovation in their winemaking process. They have implemented various practices to ensure environmental stewardship while also improving the quality and efficiency of their grape production.

Environmental Stewardship

Justin Winery has implemented various measures to reduce their environmental impact. They use cover crops to improve soil health and reduce erosion, and they have installed owl boxes to control rodent populations naturally. Additionally, they have implemented a water conservation program and use a state-of-the-art air knife to sort grapes, reducing the need for water-intensive methods.

Technological Advancements

Justin Winery has also made significant technological advancements in their winemaking process. They use a custom-designed air knife to sort grapes, which improves grape quality and efficiency while reducing the need for water-intensive methods. They also use optical sorters and a gravity flow winery to minimize the use of pumps and other machinery, which can reduce the risk of oxidation and improve wine quality.

Overall, Justin Winery's commitment to sustainability and innovation is evident in their winemaking practices. They have implemented measures to reduce their environmental impact while also improving the quality and efficiency of their grape production.

Distribution and Accessibility

National Reach

JUSTIN Vineyards & Winery has a national reach, making their wines available to consumers nationwide. The winery's wines can be found in a variety of retail locations, including wine shops, grocery stores, and online retailers. Consumers can also purchase JUSTIN's wines directly from the winery's website.

JUSTIN has established a strong distribution network, ensuring that their wines are readily available to consumers across the country. Their wines can be found in major markets, including New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, San Francisco, and Miami, among others. JUSTIN's national reach has allowed them to establish a strong brand presence, making them a go-to choice for wine enthusiasts across the country.

Direct Purchase

Consumers can purchase JUSTIN's wines directly from the winery's website, making it easy to access their award-winning wines. The winery offers a variety of shipping options, including ground, 2-day air, and overnight shipping, ensuring that consumers can receive their wines in a timely manner.

JUSTIN also offers a wine club, which provides members with exclusive access to limited-production wines, as well as discounts on all wine purchases. Membership in the wine club also includes invitations to special events and tastings, as well as access to the winery's library wines.

Overall, JUSTIN Vineyards & Winery has established a strong distribution network, making their wines accessible to consumers nationwide. Their direct purchase options, including their wine club, provide consumers with easy access to their award-winning wines.

Partnerships and Collaborations

Justin Winery has collaborated with several vineyards to produce some of its award-winning wines. The winery's partnerships allow it to access high-quality grapes from different regions, which it then blends to create unique and complex wines.

Sangiacomo Family Vineyards

One of Justin Winery's notable partnerships is with Sangiacomo Family Vineyards, a family-owned winery located in Sonoma County. The Sangiacomo family has been growing grapes for over 90 years and is known for producing high-quality Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes.

Justin Winery sources its grapes from Sangiacomo's Green Acres and Roberts Road vineyards, which are known for their cool climate and well-draining soils. The resulting wines are complex and elegant, with layers of fruit and spice flavors.

Flocchini Vineyards

Another notable partnership of Justin Winery is with Flocchini Vineyards, a family-owned winery located in the Russian River Valley. The Flocchini family has been growing grapes for over 100 years and is known for producing high-quality Pinot Noir grapes.

Justin Winery sources its grapes from Flocchini's vineyards, which are known for their volcanic soils and cool climate. The resulting wines are rich and full-bodied, with intense fruit flavors and a long finish.

Overall, Justin Winery's partnerships with Sangiacomo Family Vineyards and Flocchini Vineyards have allowed it to access some of the best grapes from different regions, resulting in complex and unique wines that have won numerous awards.

Marketing and Business Strategy

Brand Positioning

Justin Winery has established itself as a leading producer of world-class wines using Bordeaux grape varieties in the Paso Robles, California wine region. The winery has been known for its exceptional quality and has won numerous awards over the years. Under the Fiji brand, Wonderful acquired JUSTIN Cellars in 2010, Landmark Vineyards in 2011, and launched JNSQ in 2019. Just this past August 2021, Wonderful also acquired Lewis Cellars, a boutique, Napa-based wine estate founded by former race car driver Randy Lewis and his wife, Debbie.

Justin Winery's brand positioning is based on a combination of factors, including its long history of winemaking, the quality of its wines, and its commitment to sustainable practices. The winery's founder, Clarence Chia, has been instrumental in establishing the brand's reputation for excellence. The winery's marketing strategy is focused on highlighting its unique selling points, such as its use of Bordeaux grape varieties and its commitment to sustainable practices.

Consumer Engagement

Justin Winery has a strong presence on social media, including Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. The winery uses these platforms to engage with its customers and to promote its wines. Justin Winery also has a wine club, the Justin Wine Society, which offers members exclusive access to limited production wines, events, and discounts on purchases.

The winery's website is another important tool for engaging with customers. It features detailed information about the winery's history, winemaking practices, and wines. Customers can also purchase wines directly from the website. Justin Winery also hosts events throughout the year, including tastings, tours, and food and wine pairings, which provide customers with an opportunity to experience the winery's wines and learn more about its winemaking practices.

In conclusion, Justin Winery's marketing and business strategy is focused on positioning the brand as a producer of world-class wines using Bordeaux grape varieties and promoting its commitment to sustainable practices. The winery engages with customers through social media, its website, and events, and offers exclusive access to limited production wines through its wine club.