Wine Each Week – J. Lohr’s Cabernet Sauvignons

Jerry Lohr is considered one of the pioneers of the Paso Robles wine industry. Located in Northern San Luis Obispo County, the trajectory of the Paso Robles region is nothing short of astounding. Beginning in 1972 Jerry began planting grapes, mostly Cabernet Sauvignon. J. Lohr has gone on to be a powerhouse winery with their wines in all 50 states, a broad portfolio and a commitment to sustainability including extensive use of solar and dramatic water reduction. But ultimately it’s about the wines and these two diverse Cabernet’s best showcase their range. I have tasted these two wines through many vintages and frankly these are the cleanest and best iterations that I have experience from them. Both are worth seeking out, depending on your wallet. J. LOHR

2016 Cuvee PAU

This is a wine meant to pay respect to the blends of Bordeaux of the Pauillac region in France. It is however, decidedly American. Comprised mainly of Cabernet Sauvignon (69%) there is also Cabernet Franc, Petite Verdot and a dash of Malbec. It starts with a silky smooth texture on the pallet. Then the notes of subtle black cherry, current, blackberry, blueberry with back notes of red cherry, raspberry overtake you. The oak and acidity are both mild, almost muted, and not pulling focus from the sheer tactile experience of drinking this wine. It is pleasurable but also comforting. 18 months in barrel, then 20 months of bottle aging ensures this has hit its sweet spot.

509 cases.

ORIGIN: Paso Robles, California

ALCOHOL: 14.9%

PRICE: $60 (750ML)

SCORE: 92 POINTS

2018 Seven Oaks Cabernet Sauvignon

The major complaint of most Cabernet Sauvignon is that it is too expensive. It can reach stratospheric heights in the Napa Valley and elsewhere. But when you just want a Cabernet Sauvignon as a weekly wine for your dinner the J. Lohr Seven Oaks fits that bill very nicely. Priced at a mere $19 this delivers exceptional quality for the price. Made up of mainly Cabernet Sauvignon (88.5%). There is also Petite Sirah, Petit Verdot, Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Black cherry, blueberry, red raspberry, surprisingly tight tannins and mild acidity along with a judicious use of oak makes this wine a very enjoyable and very easy to drink Cabernet. You’ll be hard pressed to find this kind of quality for this price most anywhere.

ORIGIN: Paso Robles, California

ALCOHOL: 13.9%

PRICE: $19 (750ML)

SCORE: 90 POINTS