Introduction
J. Lohr Tower Road Petite Sirah Paso Robles 2021 is a powerful and intensely concentrated expression of this robust varietal, showcasing the profound depth that Petite Sirah can achieve in California’s Central Coast. This wine is sourced from J. Lohr’s dedicated Tower Road Vineyard in Paso Robles, a site particularly well-suited for Petite Sirah due to its warm, sunny days that promote full ripeness and the region’s characteristic high diurnal temperature swings that preserve acidity and color. The deep, well-drained soils of Paso Robles are ideal for cultivating Petite Sirah, allowing the vines to produce small, concentrated berries that yield wines of formidable structure and rich fruit. J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines, a pioneering family-owned winery established in 1974, is deeply committed to sustainable farming practices and crafting consistent, high-quality wines that authentically reflect their Central Coast origins. The 2021 vintage in Paso Robles was generally excellent, yielding grapes with superb concentration and balance, positioning this Petite Sirah as a profound, age-worthy, and authentic testament to J. Lohr’s expertise and the unique power of Paso Robles Petite Sirah.
Character Description
The J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines Tower Road Petite Sirah 2021 displays a brilliant, inky black-purple hue, virtually opaque and testament to its concentration. It offers an intensely aromatic and captivating bouquet of dense black plum, ripe blackberry, and blueberry compote, elegantly interwoven with opulent notes of dark chocolate, espresso bean, black pepper, a hint of cedar, and savory dried herbs. On the palate, it delivers a full-bodied and wonderfully rich, powerful texture, with concentrated dark fruit and savory flavors that mirror the nose. It’s supported by firm, yet remarkably well-integrated tannins that provide superb backbone and a long, expansive finish, balanced by a vibrant acidity that ensures freshness and remarkable precision for such a robust wine. The finish is exceptionally long, nuanced, and impressively structured, leaving a lingering impression of profound dark fruit intensity, complex spice, and the powerful, age-worthy depth characteristic of a truly epic Californian Petite Sirah.
Perfect Pairings
This monumental and expressive Paso Robles Petite Sirah is an exceptional partner for a wide range of robust and intensely flavored dishes, perfectly complementing its profound richness and formidable structure. It pairs beautifully with slow-braised beef short ribs, smoked brisket, grilled lamb shanks, and hearty stews with root vegetables. Its powerful tannins and dark fruit also make it an ideal accompaniment to aged, hard cheeses (like aged Gouda, strong cheddar, or Pecorino Romano), mushroom and truffle-based dishes, and rich, savory charcuterie featuring wild game sausages or dense cured meats. The wine’s commanding presence and layered complexity make it a fantastic choice for a grand celebratory feast, a distinguished dinner, or for those who appreciate a truly full-throttle and age-worthy red wine that develops beautifully over time. Decanting for at least one to two hours is highly recommended to allow its full expression.
About the Winery
J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines is a highly respected, family-owned winery located on California’s Central Coast, established by Jerry Lohr in 1974. With vineyards spanning Paso Robles, Monterey County, and Napa Valley, J. Lohr is dedicated to crafting a diverse portfolio of wines that express the unique characteristics of each region. Their philosophy centers on sustainable viticulture and meticulous attention to detail in both the vineyard and the cellar, ensuring the highest quality grapes and wines. J. Lohr is particularly recognized for its commitment to environmental stewardship, utilizing cutting-edge technology and renewable energy. Their unwavering dedication to quality, innovation, and showcasing the potential of California’s diverse appellations, including the powerful Petite Sirahs from Paso Robles, has solidified their position as a leading and beloved producer in the American wine landscape.
