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The Winery
In the late 1960’s, Jerry Lohr began an extensive investigation of grape growing regions throughout California. As a result of his farming background, he has always understood and respected the importance of soil quality, climate and location, which led him to California’s Central Coast region. In 1972 and 1973, he planted 280 acres of wine grapes in the Arroyo Seco appellation of Monterey County, and in 1974 completed his winery in San Jose. In 1988 property near Paso Robles was purchased, now encompassing 2,000 acres of vineyards, primarily Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and other red varietals, and an adjacent winery and barrel facility was built. Also in 1988 Jerry began expansion of his vineyards in the Arroyo Seco, which now includes 900 acres of Chardonnay and other cool climate varietals such as Riesling, Pinot Blanc, and Valdiguié.
The goal of J. Lohr brands is to produce varietals that can compete with the finest in the world, using a style that focuses on flavor and complexity through vineyard selection, technology and innovation. This goal has led Jerry Lohr and his team to develop three tiers of wines produced from estate vineyards – J. Lohr Cuvée Series, J. Lohr Vineyard Series and J. Lohr Estates. In addition J.Lohr Winery produces three tiers of wines to meet the needs of everyday and entry-level wine consumption - Crosspoint Vineyards, Cypress Vineyards and Painter Bridge.
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The "Good Juice" Wine of the Week
J. Lohr, 2004 Los Osos Merlot, Paso Robles California
$22.50/btl. + GST, 12 btls./case
2004 produced a smaller crop, as early cool temperatures gave way to later warm weather and flourishing vines. Merlot is the most common red variety to produce what is called “hen and chicken”. On the same bunch you can have small currant-size berries and ones of normal, larger size, creating diverse flavours and characters in every cluster. Traditionally the Merlot is harvested in a range of sugar ripeness. The early picks usually capture the classic varietal definition of Merlot, while the fruit harvested later adds depth and intensity to the wine. Additional complexity in the J. Lohr Estates Los Osos Merlot comes from the vineyard itself through clone and rootstock combinations and soil variation.
The 2004 J. Lohr Estates Los Osos Merlot has a dark brick red colour and good density. The aromas are classic Paso Robles Merlot, with blueberry and cherry fruit with added tar and anise spice from the oak. There is ample fresh fruit on the palate with a full but subtle body and finish. This wine will be rewarded by cellaring three to ten years.
The Food and Wine Match
Notwithstanding the famous scene from the movie Sideways where Paul Giamatti expressed a relatively high level of disinterest in Merlot as the wine of choice for later that evening, Merlot is known for its smoothness, roundness and radiance. These qualities allow it to be partnered with a fairly wide range of foods. While Frank and I disagree on this one we have decided to pair the 2004 Los Osos Merlot with Herb Crusted Flank Steak; the crust is made with garlic, tarragon, fresh thyme and rosemary. Nothing like standing over the BBQ with a glass of this wine in your hand. Enjoy.
When you have a moment please check out our website at www.profilewinegroup.com for additional wines.
How to order
Phone: 416-598-0033 extension 243 to speak directly with Allan Leal, or you can
E-mail him at aleal@profilewinegroup.com
All orders are COD. Payment can be made by Visa, MasterCard, AMEX or cheque. Your credit card will not be charged until the product is shipped.
Minimum Orders: There is a one case minimum order (12 bottles unless otherwise noted).
Delivery to a single destination within the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) is free of charge. Delivery outside of the GTA can be arranged.
You must be 19 years of age or older to place or receive a wine order. |
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