J. Lohr Tower Road Petite Sirah 2023

J. Lohr Tower Road Petite Sirah 2023 is an opulent, intensely saturated, and generously structured red wine crafted by red winemaker Brenden Wood as part of the esteemed J. Lohr Vineyard Series. Sourced from estate vineyards situated along Tower Road within the warm Estrella District of Paso Robles, the vines thrive in well-drained yet moisture-retentive gravelly clay soils. The 2023 vintage followed record-breaking winter rainfall and a cool, prolonged growing season that allowed for optimal, late-season phenolic maturation. Complemented by small touches of Grenache Noir for aromatic lift and Roussanne for palate viscosity, the wine was matured for 18 months in 225-liter French oak barrels (38% new). In the glass, it reveals an opaque, glass-staining inky purple core. The expressive bouquet unfolds with fragrant notes of ripe olallieberry, black cherry, and blackberry pie compote, interwoven with roasted hazelnut, sarsaparilla, cola spice, and delicate floral accents. On the palate, it delivers a dense, full-bodied mouthfeel packed with luscious dark fruit, velvety yet firm tannins, cappuccino, and cocoa powder, resolving into a long, warming, and concentrated finish.

Food Pairing: Cast-iron skillet Kurobuta pork chops, braised beef short ribs, barbecue lamb, smoked brisket, or aged sharp farmhouse cheddar cheese.

92 Points - Wine Enthusiast