Wines Paso Robles J. Lohr - Proprietary Red Blend - 2020

Viniou Reviews

J. Lohr’s 2020 Cuvée Proprietary Red Blend from Paso Robles exemplifies the excellence and innovation that have come to define this Californian region. Crafted primarily from Bordeaux varietals—most commonly Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Malbec, and Petit Verdot—this cuvée is a testament to careful vineyard selection and precise winemaking. Paso Robles' long, warm growing season allows for optimal ripeness, delivering a wine with both richness and balance. In the glass, you can expect concentrated aromas of black cherries, ripe plums, and cassis, underpinned by hints of vanilla, mocha, and subtle spicy notes, a reflection of thoughtful oak maturation. The tannins are generous yet polished, giving good potential for aging while also making the wine accessible in its youth.

Paso Robles itself is located on California’s Central Coast, midway between San Francisco and Los Angeles. The region benefits from a unique combination of hot days and cool nights, thanks to its proximity to the Pacific Ocean. This diurnal shift helps grapes retain freshness and build aromatic complexity. Soils in Paso Robles are diverse, ranging from calcareous limestone to loamy sands, offering expressive minerality and supporting healthy vine development. With a winegrowing history dating back to the late 19th century, Paso Robles has rapidly gained recognition for producing robust yet elegant red blends that can rival those from Napa or Sonoma.

When considering food pairings, this proprietary red blend shines alongside hearty dishes such as grilled ribeye, slow-cooked short ribs, or spice-rubbed lamb chops. The wine’s bold structure and fruit depth also pair beautifully with regional Californian cuisine, such as barbecued tri-tip or wild mushroom risotto. Rich hard cheeses like aged cheddar or gouda harmonize well with its full-bodied profile.

For optimal tasting, serve this wine at 16-18°C. Decanting for about 30 minutes prior to serving will further soften the tannins and allow the aromatics to fully blossom. Enjoy it now for its vibrancy, or cellar for a few more years to allow tertiary notes to emerge.