Jessup Cellars
Juel Red Blend
Napa Valley, California, USA
This was my contribution to the group. My affinity for Jessup is no secret, but I'm usually enjoying their Zin, red blend or Cab Franc more often as they are super approachable at a young age. I forgot that Juel, one of Jessup's two higher end offerings, needs quite a bit of time (as evidence by this being their most recent release of this wine). I imagine the '08-10's are drinking great right now.
Like the Freemark Abbey we tasted, this was also merlot dominant but it has Petite sirah and Petite Verdot compared to Freemark's Cabernet and cab franc. Could tell it was definitely young as the tannins were still gripping, but the quality here is easy to see. Powered through the night no problem and was consistent. Rhubarb, blueberries and blackberries on the palate...not a lot of oak showing right now. @Benjamin Keator mentioned it had a nose of "Dr Pepper". Jealous I hadn't thought of that descriptor before!
This was my contribution to the group. My affinity for Jessup is no secret, but I'm usually enjoying their Zin, red blend or Cab Franc more often as they are super approachable at a young age. I forgot that Juel, one of Jessup's two higher end offerings, needs quite a bit of time (as evidence by this being their most recent release of this wine). I imagine the '08-10's are drinking great right now.
Like the Freemark Abbey we tasted, this was also merlot dominant but it has Petite sirah and Petite Verdot compared to Freemark's Cabernet and cab franc. Could tell it was definitely young as the tannins were still gripping, but the quality here is easy to see. Powered through the night no problem and was consistent. Rhubarb, blueberries and blackberries on the palate...not a lot of oak showing right now. @Benjamin Keator mentioned it had a nose of "Dr Pepper". Jealous I hadn't thought of that descriptor before!
Had the 2009 on our wedding anniversary. This vintage is really coming into its own, exhibiting balance and grace.
Had the 2009 on our wedding anniversary. This vintage is really coming into its own, exhibiting balance and grace.
Aug 21st, 2021
Earthy leathery musky nose. Slight compost. Big and spicy but balanced. Cherries. Astringent fallback
Earthy leathery musky nose. Slight compost. Big and spicy but balanced. Cherries. Astringent fallback
Oct 24th, 2016
1st wine of what will probably be many tonight. Lots of depth, dark fruit and fairly dry. 2009 but could use a few more years. Outstanding! #jessup
1st wine of what will probably be many tonight. Lots of depth, dark fruit and fairly dry. 2009 but could use a few more years. Outstanding! #jessup
May 28th, 2016
Drinking some Killer Jessup for a special occasion at the Sagamore Hotel in NY
Drinking some Killer Jessup for a special occasion at the Sagamore Hotel in NY