Frequently Asked Questions
Crafted in the heart of Paso Robles, the J. Lohr Los Osos Merlot captures the essence of California winemaking excellence with its vibrant flavor profile and seamless refinement. This lush red wine boasts aromas of black plum, currant, and violet, complemented by subtle notes of baking spices and toasted oak from 12 months of barrel aging. On the palate, flavors of ripe blackberry, juicy plum, and hints of mocha provide a rich and velvety experience, perfectly balanced by gentle tannins. Sustainably grown on Paso Robles' well-drained soils, this Merlot is enhanced with small additions of Malbec and Cabernet Franc, adding aromatic depth and juiciness. Its versatile nature makes it an ideal pairing with grilled meats, creamy pastas, or vegetable dishes, promising to elevate any occasion. Aged to perfection and crafted with care, J. Lohr Los Osos Merlot is a testament to over five decades of dedication to world-class winemaking.
Process & Profile
Crafted in the esteemed Paso Robles AVA, the J. Lohr Los Osos Merlot is a product of meticulous winemaking. The moderately cool El Pomar District, with its well-drained Los Osos soils, is ideal for nurturing Merlot vines. The process involves:- Whole-berry fermentation in stainless steel tanks to enhance bright fruit character.
- Aged 12 months in oak barrels, with 15-17% composed of new American oak, lending complexity and soft tannins.
Tasting Notes
The J. Lohr Los Osos Merlot delights with a medium-dark ruby hue and an inviting bouquet of aromas. Experience the following on the palate:- Aromas: Rich notes of plum, currant, violet, and hints of baking spices and toasted pastry.
- Flavors: Juicy blackberry, blueberry, and ripe plum, seamlessly balanced by accents of pomegranate, mocha, and toasted oak.
- Finish: A smooth, velvety texture with a lingering finish of red and black fruits, hints of cocoa, and spice.
What Makes It Special
J. Lohr Los Osos Merlot stands out due to its sustainable and careful production:- Sustainability: The wine bears the Certified California Sustainable seal, reflecting a commitment to environmental stewardship.
- Soil and Climate: Grown in soils that limit vine vigor, combined with Paso Robles’ warm days and cool nights, the grapes achieve optimal ripeness and concentration.
- Blending Expertise: The addition of Malbec contributes bright fruit tones, while Cabernet Franc adds aromatic complexity and spice.
How to Enjoy
Indulge in the versatility of the J. Lohr Los Osos Merlot with these pairing and serving recommendations:- Pair With: Grilled meats, lamb, hearty pastas, poultry, or vegetarian dishes like creamy tortellini or grilled vegetables.
- Serving Temperature: Best served slightly below room temperature, around 60-65°F, to highlight its aromas and flavors.
- Aging Potential: While delightful upon release, this Merlot can evolve pleasingly over the next 5-7 years, enhancing its depth and richness.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the flavor notes of J. Lohr Los Osos Merlot?
J. Lohr Los Osos Merlot offers lush aromas of dark strawberry, blueberry, and lilac, complemented by flavors of ripe blackberry, plum, and blueberry. It also features hints of smoked meat, pepper spice, mocha, and toasted oak for added depth and complexity.
What food pairs well with J. Lohr Merlot?
This Merlot is versatile and pairs excellently with a variety of dishes, including poultry, lamb, grilled vegetables, red meats, roasted chicken, and creamy pasta dishes like spinach and tomato tortellini.
Where are the grapes for J. Lohr Merlot grown?
The grapes are sourced from Paso Robles in California's Central Coast, benefiting from the area's semi-arid climate, well-drained soils, and significant temperature swings between warm days and cool nights.
What is the composition of J. Lohr Los Osos Merlot?
The wine consists of 85% Merlot, 14% Malbec, and 1% Cabernet Sauvignon, creating a balanced profile with increased depth and structure.
What is the alcohol content of J. Lohr Los Osos Merlot?
The alcohol by volume (ABV) for J. Lohr Los Osos Merlot is 14%, offering a well-rounded and approachable intensity.
How should J. Lohr Los Osos Merlot be served?
It is best served slightly below room temperature, around 60–65°F (15–18°C), to enhance its rich flavors and smooth finish. Decanting is optional but can further open up the wine's aromatic profile.
Is J. Lohr Los Osos Merlot gluten-free?
Yes, like most wines, this Merlot is generally gluten-free. However, minimal risk may stem from cross-contamination during the production process, although this is negligible and within FDA guidelines for gluten-free labeling.
What makes J. Lohr Merlot unique?
J. Lohr Los Osos Merlot stands out due to its whole-berry fermentation, which enhances its bright red fruit character while mitigating harsher tannins. Its aging in American oak barrels also imparts subtle spice and softness, offering a velvety and approachable texture.
How long can I age J. Lohr Los Osos Merlot?
This wine is ready to drink upon release but can develop further complexity over five years with proper cellaring.
Is J. Lohr Merlot sustainable?
Yes, J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines practices sustainable farming techniques in its vineyards, aligning with environmentally responsible winemaking standards.
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