Paso Robles Cabernet Sauvignon 2019 – J. Lohr.
California is one of the best-known wine regions in the United States, but how much do you know about the different parts of California and the wine regions? Napa Valley and Sonoma are parts that come to mind first but there is a third powerhouse that has been around for quite some time already, Paso Robles. In this review we are taking a look at Paso Robles and discussing a Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2019 Paso Robles Cabernet Sauvignon produced by J. Lohr
About the Region
Along with Rutherford in Napa, Anderson Valley in Sonoma, Paso Robles is known as one of the most sought-after wine regions for Cabernet Sauvignon in California. Equidistant from S.F. and L.A., Paso Robles is sitting at the same latitude as Tunisia, you’d expect this area to be really warm and dry.
However, thanks to the Templeton Gap, the cold Pacific Ocean’s air can reach further inland, which not only moderates the warm Mediterranean climate but also allows this area to be the highest diurnal temperature swings in California. Thus, wines here appreciate intense fruit characteristics with ripe tannins while retaining refreshing acidity and savory herbaceous notes, leading to some of the best Cabernet Sauvignon’s in California.
About Winery
J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines are founded about fifty years ago by Jerry Lohr, at that time Central Coast had not yet emerged as one of the North America’s world-class winegrowing regions. Jerry Lohr, one of a handful pioneers, realized the potential of the Paso Robles, researched to find the right place to grow high quality grapes and succeeded producing superb wines.
Now that they manage around 1,600 hectares of certified sustainable vineyards in Paso Robles, Monterey County, and Napa Valley and are still family owned. They are producing seven tiers of wines, ranging from award-wining J. Lohr Signature Cabernet Sauvignon to Estate or Vineyards Series, all of which are sourcing grapes predominantly from their own vineyards. They are also being environmental leadership in California on sustainability farming and prized Green Medal leader in 2020 sustainable winegrowing leadership award. Their passion is not only for making superb wines, but also dedicating to its environment and sustainability.
About Wine
This wine is one of the estate series wines and a classic wine icon for thirty vintages, sourcing grapes predominantly from several estate vineyards. They are carefully crafted with 88.5% Cabernet Sauvignon, Petite Syrah, Petit Verdot, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc, and aged for 12 months in American oak (20% new).
The wine is well-balanced and approachable. Just when opened, the nose gained a range of ripe succulent aromas of black currant, blackberry, and blueberry, as well as charming raspberry or red berry. Fruit-forward wine yet sits on the elegant side by a range of savory spices, and the herbaceous edge of green bell pepper, and tomato leaf. Sweet spice notes coming from the American oak are well-integrated into its fruits. On the palate, moderate acidity and ripe tannins are smooth and soft with mocha or tobacco flavor on its finish. Affordable and exceptionally food-friendly wine, which pairs well with a Lasagna or pork chops.
This review is written by Kazumi Uejo, on behalf of Dutch Wine Apprentice. The wine is available online at Bovino.
Price: €21,10
Taste date: November 2022
Score: 91/100 DWA Score
Website: J. Lohr