J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines

J. Lohr San Jose Wine Center

J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines is a prominent American winery located in California, known for producing a wide range of high-quality wines. The winery was founded by Jerry Lohr in 1974 and has since grown to become one of the most respected names in the wine industry.

History

J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines was established by Jerry Lohr, a South Dakota native who initially pursued a career in civil engineering. After developing an interest in viticulture, Lohr began researching potential vineyard sites in California. He eventually settled on the Arroyo Seco AVA in Monterey County, where he planted his first vineyards in 1972. The winery officially opened its doors in 1974.

Vineyards

J. Lohr owns and operates over 4,000 acres of vineyards in three key regions of California: Monterey County, Paso Robles, and Napa Valley. Each region offers unique terroirs that contribute to the distinct characteristics of J. Lohr wines.

Arroyo Seco

The Arroyo Seco AVA is known for its cool climate, which is ideal for growing Chardonnay and Riesling. The region's gravelly soils and coastal influences help produce wines with bright acidity and complex flavors.

Paso Robles

The Paso Robles AVA is characterized by its warm climate and diverse soils, making it suitable for growing a variety of Bordeaux and Rhone varietals. J. Lohr's vineyards in this region are primarily planted with Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Syrah.

Napa Valley

In the prestigious Napa Valley AVA, J. Lohr focuses on producing premium Cabernet Sauvignon and other Bordeaux varietals. The region's well-drained soils and ideal climate conditions contribute to the production of high-quality, age-worthy wines.

Wines

J. Lohr produces a wide range of wines, including both varietal and blended offerings. Some of the most notable wines include:

• J. Lohr Estates - A collection of varietal wines that showcase the unique characteristics of each vineyard site.
• J. Lohr Vineyard Series - Limited-production wines that highlight specific vineyard blocks and clones.
• J. Lohr Cuvée Series - Bordeaux-style blends that represent the pinnacle of J. Lohr's winemaking efforts.

Sustainability

J. Lohr is committed to sustainable farming practices and has implemented various initiatives to reduce its environmental impact. The winery has received several certifications for its sustainability efforts, including the California Sustainable Winegrowing Alliance certification.

Awards and Recognition

J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines has received numerous awards and accolades over the years, solidifying its reputation as a leading producer of high-quality wines. The winery's commitment to excellence has been recognized by various wine competitions and publications.

See Also

• California wine
• Viticulture
• Wine tasting
• Wine and health