J. Lohr Hiltop Cabernet Sauvignon (750Ml)

J. Lohr Hilltop Cabernet Sauvignon is a Paso Robles red wine from the family winery Jerry Lohr started in 1974. It is mostly Cabernet Sauvignon, usually 90% or more. Small amounts of Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc round out the blend. Some years add a dash of Malbec as well.

Most of the fruit comes from the Shotwell Vineyard in the El Pomar District. The Beck Vineyard, high up in the Creston District, adds more. Summer days in Paso Robles can get close to 100°F, while ocean air cools the nights. Gravelly, lime-rich soils keep the vines working hard. The wine then rests about 16 months in French oak barrels.

The 2021 vintage opens with blackberry and blueberry, plus touches of violet and spiced tea. On the palate it feels dense and soft, with fine tannins. Black and red currant fill the middle. A bright finish carries a light pastry note from its time in barrel. Expect small shifts from one vintage to the next.

Critics have been kind to it. The 2021 earned 93 points from The Tasting Panel. It also picked up 91 from Jeb Dunnuck, 91 from Vinous and 90 from Wine Enthusiast.

Give it some air before you pour. The winery suggests a rosemary ribeye with roasted potatoes, parsnips and fennel. Lamb and other red meats work well too. You can drink it now or cellar it for ten years or more. J. Lohr holds California Sustainable Winegrowing certification.