Paso Robles

Known for its extreme growing conditions, and well-drained, gravelly, sometimes chalky limestone soil, Paso Robles is one of three California appellations producing Cabernet and Rhône varietals worthy of international acclaim. Akin to the climates of Alexander Valley in Northern California’s Sonoma County, and slightly warmer than the Oakville district of Napa Valley, Paso Robles is known for fifty degree temperature swings between dawn and afternoon. When combined with the area’s scant moisture, the resulting Cabernet fruit is intense and concentrated with forward fruit aromas and flavors similar to its northern counterparts, but with riper and softer tannins. At J. Lohr, we’ve captured the promise of these vineyards since first discovering them over 25 years ago, and strive to always highlight the attractive, fresh aromas and lush, mouth-filling flavors of wines from this region.

With over 2,000 gross acres of estate vineyards calling Paso Robles home, the grapes from these vineyards comprise the bulk of the red varietals and blends in our signature portfolio. Our popular J. Lohr Estates Seven Oaks Cabernet Sauvignon has become almost synonymous with the rich cherry and black currant flavors of the region, while our J. Lohr Estates Los Osos Merlot achieves lavish yet nuanced plum and blueberry pie flavors in this climate. Our J. Lohr Estates South Ridge Syrah thrives similarly amidst these challenging conditions.

We produce our J. Lohr Hilltop Cabernet Sauvignon from the highest, sun-drenched slopes and hills among our Paso Robles holdings, while our Tower Road Petite Sirah comes from small vineyard enclaves of the Estrella District. Cabernet Sauvignon and Petite Sirah hold premier rank here, and these two wines are consistently produced from the highest caliber of fruit, showing deep, sumptuous berry flavors.

Seizing the benefits of the harsh climatic conditions once more, the J. Lohr Cuvée Series is a magnificent trio of wines reflecting the artistic expression of Bordelais winemaking from the districts of St. Emilion, Pauillac and Pomerol—yet with a unique California accent. Cabernet, Merlot and Cabernet Franc grapes for these wines are harvested from our gravelly and well-drained soils, and demonstrate a passionate sense of adventure and determined evolution, both in the vineyard and cellar.