Introduction
J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines Hilltop Cabernet Sauvignon 2021 is a flagship expression of Paso Robles Cabernet Sauvignon, demonstrating the region’s remarkable potential for crafting powerful yet refined red wines. Sourced from the hilltop vineyards of J. Lohr’s Paso Robles properties, this wine benefits from the area’s unique diurnal temperature shifts and calcareous soils, which are ideal for producing Cabernet with intense fruit and firm structure. J. Lohr, a pioneering family-owned winery founded in 1974, has been instrumental in establishing Paso Robles as a premier wine region, particularly for Bordeaux varietals. The 2021 vintage in California was highly regarded, yielding fruit with excellent concentration and balance, making this Hilltop Cabernet a compelling and authentic example of its appellation’s excellence and a wine with significant aging potential.
Character Description
J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines Hilltop Cabernet Sauvignon 2021 displays a deep, opaque ruby-purple hue, indicative of its concentration and youth. It offers an intensely aromatic and generous bouquet of ripe dark fruits—blackcurrant, black cherry, and plum—elegantly interwoven with complex notes of cedar, toasted vanilla bean, baking spices (like cinnamon and clove), and a subtle hint of graphite and mocha from its careful oak aging. On the palate, it delivers a full-bodied and exceptionally velvety texture, with concentrated dark fruit and savory flavors mirroring the nose. It’s supported by firm, yet beautifully refined tannins that provide excellent backbone and a long, expansive finish, balanced by a vibrant acidity that maintains freshness despite its power. The finish is persistent, opulent, and exceptionally smooth, leaving a lingering impression of sweet dark fruit, subtle spice, and the profound depth characteristic of a premium Paso Robles Cabernet Sauvignon.
Perfect Pairings
This rich and expressive Paso Robles Cabernet Sauvignon is an exceptional partner for a wide range of robust and hearty dishes. It pairs beautifully with grilled prime cuts of beef, such as ribeye or sirloin, slow-cooked lamb shanks, or venison. Its bold fruit and structured tannins also make it an ideal accompaniment to barbecue, hearty stews, and a variety of aged, firm cheeses like a sharp cheddar or aged Gouda. The wine’s approachable yet powerful structure makes it a fantastic choice for a celebratory meal, a sophisticated gathering, or for those who appreciate a full-bodied and compelling red wine that delivers immense character and pleasure. Decanting for at least an hour is highly recommended to allow its full expression.
About the Winery
J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines is a storied, family-owned winery founded by Jerry Lohr in California’s Central Coast in 1974. A true pioneer, Jerry Lohr recognized the vast potential of Paso Robles for growing Bordeaux and Rhône varietals, and the Arroyo Seco region of Monterey County for Chardonnay and other whites. The winery is known for its commitment to sustainable practices, meticulous vineyard management, and a consistent focus on producing high-quality, estate-grown wines that truly reflect their terroir. J. Lohr has built a reputation for its reliable excellence and its dedication to the long-term health of its vineyards and the environment. The Hilltop Cabernet Sauvignon is a prime example of their expertise, showcasing their ability to craft world-class wines that balance power with elegance, contributing significantly to the reputation of California wines globally.
