Jøyus, based in the Pacific Northwest of the US, stands out as the country’s only woman-owned non-alcoholic winery. This innovative brand is dedicated to crafting top-tier non-alcoholic wines, with all the expertise of founder Sarah Mitchell and her team going into creating exceptional wines without the alcohol. With such a unique mission and background, does the Jøyus Cabernet Sauvignon live up to the expectations?
Let’s explore and see how this NA red is on the nose, on the palate and in the glass.
Appearance
In terms of appearance, the Jøyus Cabernet Sauvignon makes an immediate impression with its deep ruby-red hue. The wine pours with good legs that cling to the glass, suggesting a certain body and structure reminiscent of traditional, alcoholic reds. Visually, it checks all the boxes for a Cabernet Sauvignon, providing a classic look that promises a familiar experience. At first glance, it’s clear that Jøyus has paid attention to detail, offering a wine that mirrors the visual appeal of its alcoholic counterparts.
Aroma
The bouquet of Jøyus Cabernet Sauvignon is enticing and sophisticated. When you swirl the glass, aromas of ripe blackberries, vanilla, and subtle cedar greet you. There’s also a hint of tobacco that adds a depth of complexity, making it feel like you’re experiencing a more mature, layered wine. The fragrance invites you to take that first sip. And you can tell that the winemaking process has been handled with care to preserve the essence of a traditional Cabernet Sauvignon.
Taste
The taste of Jøyus non-alcoholic Cabernet Sauvignon stands out as a notable achievement in the non-alcoholic wine category. Bold, dark fruit notes of blackberry and black cherry dominate, with a supporting cast of plum and currant lurking underneath. There are also earthy undertones and a touch of gentle spice that gives the wine some extra character. While the lack of alcohol does mean the wine misses the warmth and complexity that you’d find in a traditional Cabernet, it’s still impressively full-bodied for a non-alcoholic wine. The taste is deep and satisfying, and there’s a noticeable lack of the sweetness that sometimes plagues alcohol-free alternatives.
Mouthfeel
One of the highlights of Jøyus Cabernet Sauvignon is its velvety mouthfeel. The texture is smooth and supple, making it very easy to drink. The tannins, while present, are subtle, lending the wine a soft structure that feels balanced but not overly harsh. It’s an incredibly drinkable wine, and the mouthfeel adds to the overall impression of sophistication. You may not get the same bold astringency that you would in an alcoholic Cabernet, but for a non-alcoholic offering, it hits the mark.
Finish
The finish of Jøyus Cabernet Sauvignon is worth noting. While it may lack the extended complexity and depth that some wine connoisseurs seek in higher-end Cabernets, it leaves a satisfying aftertaste that lingers nicely on the palate. The absence of alcohol naturally limits the wine’s finish, but for a non-alcoholic red, it does an excellent job of maintaining a persistent, enjoyable aftertaste. It’s a testament to the quality of Jøyus’s winemaking efforts, which aim to deliver as complete an experience as possible without the alcohol.
Pairing Suggestions
Thanks to its rich fruitiness and gentle tannins, Jøyus Cabernet Sauvignon pairs well with hearty and flavourful dishes. Grilled portobello mushrooms, roasted beef, or a well-marbled steak would all be excellent matches, as the wine’s fruit-forward profile balances the richness of the meat. For a more casual pairing, consider serving it with a cheese platter, especially with aged varieties like Gouda or sharp cheddar. If you’re in the mood for something sweet, the wine’s fruity nature also complements dark chocolate desserts or mixed berries with a balsamic reduction, offering a delightful contrast.
Overall Impressions
Jøyus non-alcoholic Cabernet Sauvignon is an impressive wine from a winery dedicated to crafting non-alcoholic alternatives. It captures the essence of a traditional Cabernet Sauvignon, delivering a rich and satisfying experience in every aspect – appearance, aroma, taste, mouthfeel, and finish. Of course, when compared to a traditional, alcoholic Cabernet, especially those at the higher end, there may be a slight difference in depth and complexity. But that’s not the focus here. Jøyus has created a wine that stands strong in the non-alcoholic category, offering a sophisticated and enjoyable option for those looking to enjoy the flavours of a classic Cabernet Sauvignon without the alcohol.
For anyone seeking a top-notch non-alcoholic wine, Jøyus Cabernet Sauvignon is an excellent choice.