J. Lohr 2014 Signature Cabernet Sauvignon, Paso Robles

On Jerry Lohr’s 80th birthday J. Lohr launched the ultimate, limited release red wine in its portfolio, the 2013 J. Lohr Signature Cabernet Sauvignon. J. Lohr Signature Cabernet represents the culmination of their Cabernet program in Paso Robles, and the realization of Jerry’s long-standing vision to release a Cabernet Sauvignon that could compete with the finest Cabernets of Paso Robles, Napa Valley, and other celebrated, global winegrowing regions. Sourced from the Beck Vineyard, in the Creston District of Paso Robles, a unique site perched 1,700 feet above the early morning fog. Its calcareous soils and cooling afternoon winds are perfect for growing structured, nuanced, low-yeild Cabernet Sauvignon. The Clone 337 Cabernet from this estate ripens evenly and early with excellent color, purity of fruit, and mature phenolics.The hand-harvested grapes were berry-sorted into six-ton open top tanks for fermentation. Maceration took place on the skins for five days, before early pressing to limit tannin extraction. Aged 17 months in 100% new French oak from coopers Demptos, Marcel Cadet, Nadalie, and Saint Martin. This 2014 is the second release. This was a Platinum Award winner in the San Diego Wine Competition, a Double Gold Medal winner in the San Francisco Chronicle Competition, Wine Enthusiast Magazine designated it a "Cellar Selection" and scored it 96 points saying "The second vintage release of J. Lohr's Signature wine, first produced to commemorate founder Jerry Lohr's 80th birthday. Rich aromas of stewed black plum, blackberry pie, vanilla, clove and prune cake show on the nose. The mouthfeel is rich overall, but with firm tannins in the background that lend structure to the strawberry and blackberry flavors, graced by hints of wood smoke, peppercorn and licorice. Drink now–2029." and Wine Review Online scored it 98 points saying "The second vintage of the new J. Lohr flagship wine is a bit more approachable on release than the 2013, but it hasn’t skipped a beat in the quality department.  A specific selection of clone 337 from the Beck Vineyard in the Creston district delivers deep ripe blackberry, cassis and fall spice joined by light touches of vanilla, toast and earth, all of which join together on the palate in a symphony of bold elegance.  The coda brings lingering spice and fruit worthy of a standing ovation.  Cheers to the winemaking team for consistent quality and attention to detail!"