Each morning on my way to work I ponder what the day will bring us out at the gorgeous, romantic, and exciting place that is JUSTIN Vineyards & Winery. As part of the JUSTIN Hospitality Team, everyday we collectively make sure each guest leaves with a memorable experience- whether tasting, staying, dining, or touring; we do everything within our capacity to see each visitor leave happy, and wanting to come back for more.
Upon my arrival I walk into our beautiful lobby, eager to greet our JUST Inn guests and find out how their evening went before they head back into The Restaurant, to enjoy yet another delicious meal. I am pleased to say we find that most Inn guests we host are sharing a special occasion with us, and we just love to hear the fascinating stories our guests have to tell us about the previous night or the night to come. The creative preparations of Executive Chef Will Torres provide for one of the most enjoyable culinary experiences one could hope to have, making any celebration that much more special. Most Inn Guests opt to enjoy the impressive 5 course meal with wine pairings perfectly suggested by our Certified Sommelier, Jim Gerakaris, and Dining Room Manager, Timothy Argie. Once overly satisfied, they are always ecstatic to make the short walk back to their suite to wind – down fireside.
The next day, after the JUST Inn guests finish indulging in their coursed breakfast, I can then check them in for the 10:30am Winery & Cave Tour, also included in their stay. I find that often time’s guests go for the latter tour offered at 2:30pm; in favor of exploring the neighboring wineries, tasting through our current profile, hiking through the vineyards, or just relaxing poolside in the meantime. On the Winery & Cave tour, one of our Certified Wine Specialists educates our guests about the history of the stunning Adelaida Hills region that’s surrounds us, our winery, and vineyards. While touring the crush pad, where all of our fruit is crushed, de-stemmed and/or pressed; as well as the tank room, where our fermenters are busy at work, our visitors are able to actually see the winemaking process in action. For me, and most wine aficionados, this is a fascinating site, as the art of winemaking never ceases to amaze. After going through our extraordinary 5-story barrel chai, our JUSTIN fans are always impressed. The barrel chai is essentially 18,000 square feet of caves holding our aging wines underground in barrels, but also doubles as a great reception site for the spectacular events we host – and not to mention, a popular place to pop the question! Following the tour we welcome our guests to sample wine in our breathtaking tasting room.
Upon entering through the wrought iron gates of our tasting room, our visitors are greeted by our proud tasting room staff, with an assortment of our exceptional wines awaiting you. JUSTIN tasting room attendants are comprised of not only educated wine specialists, but wine enthusiasts. Each of our staff members thoroughly enjoy conversing, and educating our tasters; offering an intimate and truly memorable time for everyone. This full JUSTIN tasting experience ensures each guest departs fulfilled and smiling.
Once the day is over, and it comes time to leave for the night, I can then reminisce through the days occurrences on my drive home. I get to leave work feeling rewarded, and equally fulfilled as those I had the pleasure of accommodating. I can honestly say each and everyday the JUSTIN hospitality team enjoys the privilege of contributing to each guests memorable experience, and strives to make each one better than the last. We hope you can come visit us soon, and let us help create a remarkable JUSTIN experience for you! To hear more, please reach out to me at 805-591-3224.
Cheers!
Rachelle Ruggeri
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