J. Wilkes 2020 Cabernet from Highland’s coast-cooled slopes is a balanced, elegant expression of Paso Robles. Expect a fusion of red and dark fruit, gentle herb accents, polished structure, and a bright finish—delivering both everyday enjoyment and food-friendly finesse.
🍇 Terroir & Heritage
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Crafted by J. Wilkes (now under Miller Family Wine Co.), this Cabernet highlights the Highlands District AVA, a high-elevation sub-region of Paso Robles known for widely fluctuating temperatures and ancient alluvial soils that preserve crisp acidity and rich varietal character
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A well-crafted blend of vineyard sites and harvest dates, designed to reflect the region rather than a single plot
👃 Aromatics
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Matt Kettmann (Wine Enthusiast, 90 pts) detects roasted cranberry and dried rose petal, alongside strawberry, herb, and pencil-shaving notes
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Other reviewers note blackberry, cassis, ripe plum, with subtle hints of toasted oak, violets, and cocoa
👅 Palate & Texture
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Light to medium-bodied yet flavorful: red and blue fruit (cranberry, cassis), complemented by herbal spice, pencil lead, and a slight smokiness
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Balanced acidity and fine tannins evoke notes of dark-roasted coffee, chocolate, and a minty or menthol touch
🔚 Finish & Pairing
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Clean, lingering finish with fine-grain tannins and a spice-driven tail—olivey herbs like oregano and bay leaf appear in some vintages .
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Perfect with grilled pork, lamb, fatty steak, dark chocolate, or rich cheeses
🏆 Style & Value
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Rated 90 pts by Wine Enthusiast, priced around $25–30—a solid value for a terroir-driven Paso Robles Cabernet Explorer-friendly, showing ripe fruit character without overwhelming oak—great for both casual and more refined meals.
"Roasted cranberry and dried rose petal aromas make for a light entry to the nose of this bottling. The palate is lightly bodied as well, with roasted cranberry, strawberry, pencil shaving and herb flavors." Wine Enthusiast 90 Points
