2021 Josh Cellars - Cabernet Sauvignon North Coast

While Josh Cellars is famous across the country for making reliable, everyday crowd-pleasers, their "Reserve" lineup takes things a massive step forward. For this 2021 bottling, the fruit is sourced entirely from the premium, cool-climate vineyards of California’s North Coast AVA—including prized parcels in Sonoma and Lake Counties. Thanks to chilly Pacific ocean breezes and foggy nights balancing out warm, sunny days, the grapes develop a much deeper layer of complexity and structural refinement. The outstanding, highly rated 2021 vintage yielded an upscale, bolder version of the classic Josh profile, blending rich California opulence with smooth, polished elegance.

Tasting Profile

• Aroma: Rich, expressive, and decadent. The nose opens with a concentrated burst of ripe black currants, macerated black cherries, and dark plums. As it breathes, it reveals a highly inviting complexity, displaying undertones of roasted walnuts, fresh sage, subtle mocha, and a light floral lift of red rose petals.

• Palate: Full-bodied, lush, and velvety. It coats the mouth with deep, dark berry flavors, beautifully married to notes of toasted hazelnuts and dark chocolate coffee beans. Thanks to the North Coast's cooler growing conditions, a refreshing baseline of acidity keeps the dense fruit profile feeling balanced rather than heavy or jammy.

• Finish: Smooth, lengthy, and warm. Unlike old-school, overly aggressive mountain Cabernets, the tannins here are supple, soft, and integrated. The wine glides into a lingering, comforting finish accented by sweet vanilla bean and toasted oak.

Wine Specifications

Serving Tip: This is an incredibly approachable, open-and-pour bottle that performs brilliantly right upon pulling the cork. However, giving it just 20 to 30 minutes in a decanter or a wide-bowled glass allows the oak, mocha, and hazelnut layers to fully unlock and soften.

Best Food Pairings

This bold, oak-kissed Cabernet has the richness and structure needed to complement hearty, well-seasoned comfort foods:

• The Classics: Grilled New York strip steak or slow-braised beef short ribs.

• Savory Comforts: Sautéed portobello mushrooms, garlic-roasted potatoes, or wood-fired pepperoni pizza.

• Cheese: Sharp, aged yellow cheddars, smoked Gouda, or a robust charcuterie board.