J Lohr Merlot Paso Robles 2008 - A mature red color with a bright raspberry hue. Black cherry and pomegranate aromas are complimented by an oak signature reminiscent of cedar and dark chocolate. This soft wine has finely textured tannins and is bright and lively on the palate with a finish of Rainier cherry fruit.

 

The 2008 growing season presented significant challenges for California winegrowers. Spring and autumn frosts--coupled with heat spikes, which impacted flowering and maturation, claimed much of the prized crop. Yields were at half of normal levels in the Paso Robles AVA, depending on variety, microclimate and cultural practices. This was the second consecutive vintage of drought, which limited vine growth and reduced cluster and berry size. Merlot was fully ripened and harvested before it could be impacted by an unseasonable October frost. This 2008 Los Osos Merlot is enhanced with a bit of Malbec fruit that adds delicate pomegranate aromas and a soft mid-palate to the blend.