J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines: A Family’s Pursuit of Californian Viticulture Excellence

With a rich history spanning five decades, J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines has emerged as one of the most esteemed wine brands in the industry. Jerry Lohr, a visionary pioneer, recognized the untapped potential of the California Central Coast as a premier winegrowing region when it was still relatively unknown. His belief in the region’s inherent ability to produce exceptional wines led him to plant grapes in Monterey’s Arroyo Seco district in the 1970s.

In the early 1980s, Jerry Lohr set his sights further south, specifically on Paso Robles, as an ideal location for growing Cabernet Sauvignon. Drawing inspiration from the French tradition of matching grape varieties with specific growing conditions, he embarked on a venture to cultivate Cabernet Sauvignon and other red varieties in the Paso Robles region. In 1986, the first vines were planted, and two years later, J. Lohr’s Paso Robles production facility was inaugurated, showcasing Jerry’s commitment to hands-on craftsmanship.

J.Lohr Vineyards & Wines remains a family-owned and operated business, with Jerry Lohr working closely alongside his children and co-owners Steve, Cynthia, and Lawrence. Together, they have propelled the winery to new heights and laid the foundation for its next pioneering chapter.

Jerry Lohr’s unwavering dedication to innovation and exploration has garnered widespread acclaim. Despite nearly half a century in the wine industry and his eightieth year on this planet, Jerry shows no signs of slowing down. His recent achievements include the launch of the 2013 J. Lohr Signature Cabernet Sauvignon, receiving the prestigious Wine Enthusiast Magazine’s “American Wine Legend” Wine Star Award, and being honored as the “Innovator of the Year” by Wine Business Monthly. These accolades are a testament to Jerry’s enduring legacy and his integral role in shaping California wine history.

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Beyond producing exceptional wines, J. Lohr is deeply committed to sustainability and environmental stewardship. This dedication traces back to Jerry Lohr’s seven decades of farming experience and is embraced by the passionate second generation of the Lohr family. 

The winery’s sustainable practices have been recognized with the Green Medal Leader Award from the California Sustainable Winegrowing Alliance, highlighting J. Lohr’s exemplary efforts in balancing environmental, economic, and social goals.

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With 3,700 acres of estate vineyards primarily located along the renowned Central Coast of California, J. Lohr understands that the foundation of exceptional flavors begins with responsible land management. Their unwavering focus on achieving the highest quality wines is underpinned by their commitment to the stewardship of the land.

As J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines looks towards the future, their legacy of excellence, innovation, and sustainability continues to shape the California wine industry. Through their unwavering dedication and pioneering spirit, they have firmly established themselves as a leading force in the world of wine, earning the respect and admiration of wine enthusiasts and peers alike.