Everything About J. Lohr Estates Falcon's Perch Pinot Noir J. Lohr Estates Falcon's Perch Pinot Noir is a remarkable expression of Monterey County's unique terroir and J. Lohr's commitment to crafting exceptional wines. Founded in 1974 by Jerry Lohr, J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines has been at the forefront of California's Central Coast winemaking revolution, pioneering sustainable viticulture practices and producing high-quality wines that showcase the region's distinctive characteristics. The Falcon's Perch Pinot Noir, in particular, exemplifies the winery's dedication to creating wines that balance fruitiness, earthiness, and subtle oak influences. This wine benefits from Monterey County's cool climate and diverse soils, which contribute to its complex flavor profile and delicate aromatics. For a closer look at this exquisite wine and related products, explore our selection at Seneca Wine & Liquor, located at 8630 Seneca Turnpike, New Hartford, NY 13413, and visit our website at https://shopsenecawine.com. Product Deep Dives J. Lohr Estates Falcon's Perch Pinot Noir The J. Lohr Estates Falcon's Perch Pinot Noir, crafted from 100% Pinot Noir grapes sourced from Monterey County, offers a delicate and complex flavor profile. Fermented in open-top tanks with a short skin contact period, this wine showcases fruit flavors with minimal astringency. The 2021 vintage, characterized by a dry winter and spring, retains delicate aromatics due to mild daytime temperatures and slow ripening. Approximately 15% of the fruit undergoes whole cluster fermentation, while 20% ages in oak barrels, adding depth without overpowering natural flavors. The wine's balanced aging process, with 80% in stainless steel and 20% in French oak, preserves freshness while introducing subtle oak notes. This Pinot Noir is known for its nuanced taste, particularly in the 2021 vintage, contrasting with the rich, full-bodied J. Lohr Estates Seven Oaks Cabernet Sauvignon. Available in 750ml bottles at a moderate price point, it pairs excellently with lighter fare such as salmon, poultry, or vegetarian dishes. J. Lohr Estates Seven Oaks Cabernet Sauvignon The J. Lohr Estates Seven Oaks Cabernet Sauvignon, produced from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon grapes from Monterey County, is renowned for its rich, full-bodied taste. This wine undergoes traditional winemaking methods, with a focus on oak barrel aging to enhance its complexity. The tannin structure softens over the first year, resulting in a smooth and enjoyable drink best consumed between 2024 and 2027. This Cabernet Sauvignon's robust profile distinguishes it from the delicate Falcon's Perch Pinot Noir and the balanced Arroyo Vista Chardonnay. Offered in standard 750ml bottles at a moderate price, it complements hearty dishes like red meat, game, or robust cheeses. Its complex flavor profile makes it an ideal choice for special occasions or when aiming to impress. J. Lohr Estates Arroyo Vista Chardonnay The J. Lohr Estates Arroyo Vista Chardonnay, crafted from 100% Chardonnay grapes from Monterey County, is celebrated for its balanced acidity and rich flavors. This wine undergoes a unique aging process, utilizing both stainless steel and oak barrels to maintain freshness while introducing subtle oak notes. The result is a harmonious blend that preserves the wine's natural characteristics while enhancing its overall flavor profile. In comparison to other J. Lohr offerings, this Chardonnay strikes a middle ground between the full-bodied Seven Oaks Cabernet Sauvignon and the delicate Falcon's Perch Pinot Noir. Available in 750ml bottles at a moderate price point, it versatilely pairs with seafood, poultry, or creamy sauces, making it suitable for both everyday meals and special occasions. Santa Lucia Highlands Sauvignon Blanc The Santa Lucia Highlands Sauvignon Blanc, produced from 100% Sauvignon Blanc grapes from its namesake region, is distinguished by its crisp acidity and vibrant citrus flavors. This refreshing white wine is crafted using traditional methods and aged exclusively in stainless steel tanks, a process that preserves its freshness and varietal character. The result is a wine that truly embodies the essence of its grape variety. Unlike the oak-aged Chardonnay or the complex red wines in J. Lohr's portfolio, this Sauvignon Blanc offers a pure, unadulterated expression of its terroir. Presented in 750ml bottles at a moderate price, it pairs exceptionally well with lighter cuisine such as salads, seafood, or goat cheese. Its refreshing profile makes it an ideal choice for warm weather or as an aperitif. Paso Robles Merlot The Paso Robles Merlot, crafted from 100% Merlot grapes sourced from the Paso Robles region, is celebrated for its approachable and fruit-forward profile. This smooth red wine undergoes a unique aging process, utilizing both stainless steel and oak barrels to balance its tannins and enhance its fruit-forward characteristics. The result is a wine that offers complexity while remaining accessible to a wide range of palates. Contrasting with the delicate Pinot Noir and the robust Cabernet Sauvignon in J. Lohr's lineup, this Merlot occupies a middle ground with its smooth, fruit-driven flavor profile. Available in standard 750ml bottles at a moderate price point, it versatilely complements various dishes including pasta, pizza, or grilled meats, making it an excellent choice for casual gatherings or everyday enjoyment. History and Evolution of Pinot Noir Pinot Noir, one of the oldest and most revered red wine grapes, has a rich history that spans centuries. Originating in the Burgundy region of France, it has been cultivated since the 1st century AD, with the first documented mention in 1345. The grape was named after the pinecone shape of its bunches and quickly became a favorite among the nobility, including Duke Philip the Bold, who banned Gamay in 1395 to promote Pinot Noir. Despite its popularity, Pinot Noir faced significant challenges in California, particularly due to its thin skin and susceptibility to disease, which led to a notorious reputation until pioneering winemakers like Joseph Swan and Joe Rochioli championed its growth in the 1960s and '70s. The evolution of Pinot Noir has been shaped by its adaptation to various climates and soils around the world. In regions like Monterey County, the unique microclimates and soil types contribute to diverse expressions of the varietal. For instance, the cooling breezes from the Pacific Ocean and the varied soil compositions create ideal conditions for growing Pinot Noir, resulting in wines with a balance of fruitiness and earthiness that wine enthusiasts appreciate. Growing Pinot Noir is a delicate art, requiring careful handling to avoid diseases and rot. The grape's thin skin makes it particularly vulnerable to environmental factors, but modern winemaking practices, such as cold soaking and gentle winemaking techniques, have significantly improved the quality of Pinot Noir wines. The Influence of Monterey County's Microclimates Monterey County, known for its unique microclimates, offers an ideal environment for growing Pinot Noir. The Pacific Ocean's cooling breezes significantly influence the region's climate, providing a cool and stable temperature that is essential for Pinot Noir's development. The varied soil types, ranging from limestone to clay, also play a vital role in shaping the wine's flavor profile. These factors combine to create a balance of fruitiness and earthiness that is highly prized by wine enthusiasts. The characteristics of Falcon's Perch Pinot Noir are a direct result of these microclimates. The wine showcases a delicate balance of red fruit flavors, with hints of earthy undertones. The cooling breezes help to preserve the natural acidity of the grape, contributing to a crisp and refreshing taste experience. The varied soil types, meanwhile, add complexity to the wine, with subtle notes of spice and mineral that enhance its overall structure and mouthfeel. Monterey County's unique combination of climate and soil makes it an exceptional region for growing Pinot Noir. The region's cool summers and mild winters allow for a slow ripening process, which helps to preserve the delicate flavors and aromas of the grape. This, coupled with the varied soil types, results in wines that are both elegant and complex, making them highly sought after by wine connoisseurs. The Role of Oak in Winemaking Oak aging is an important step in winemaking, particularly for Pinot Noir, as it significantly affects the flavor and complexity of the wine. The choice of oak barrel, whether French or American, can impart subtle notes of vanilla, spice, and toast to the wine. French oak, known for its rich, complex flavors, is often preferred by winemakers looking to add depth and structure to their Pinot Noir wines. American oak, on the other hand, provides a more subtle influence, adding hints of caramel and toasty notes without overpowering the delicate fruit and floral flavors of the grape. Winemakers at J. Lohr, for instance, use oak aging to enhance the structure and mouthfeel of their Pinot Noir wines. By carefully selecting the type and age of the oak barrels, they can balance the wine's delicate fruit and floral notes with the subtle nuances of oak. This approach ensures that the wine maintains its varietal characteristics while gaining complexity and depth from the aging process. The result is a Pinot Noir that is both elegant and full-bodied, with a rich, layered flavor profile that is highly appealing to wine enthusiasts. Learn more about J. Lohr Estates Falcon's Perch Pinot Noir at Seneca Wine & Liquor J. Lohr Estates Falcon's Perch Pinot Noir has fruit-forward notes, balanced with earthy and spicy undertones. For those seeking to enhance their wine experience, consider pairing this Pinot Noir with curated cheese sets, using appropriate glassware, and employing tools like wine aerators and preservers. To discover more about J. Lohr Estates Falcon's Perch Pinot Noir and other fine wines, visit Seneca Wine & Liquor at 8630 Seneca Turnpike, New Hartford, NY 13413, or contact them at (315) 724-8672, seneca@horsestailgroup.com, or explore their offerings online at shopsenecawine.com. Contact Information Location: 8630 Seneca Tpke, New Hartford, NY 13413 Website: https://shopsenecawine.com Phone: 315-724-8672 Email: seneca@horsestailgroup.com
The Influence of Monterey County's Microclimates Monterey County, known for its unique microclimates, offers an ideal environment for growing Pinot Noir. The Pacific Ocean's cooling breezes significantly influence the region's climate, providing a cool and stable temperature that is essential for Pinot Noir's development. The varied soil types, ranging from limestone to clay, also play a vital role in shaping the wine's flavor profile. These factors combine to create a balance of fruitiness and earthiness that is highly prized by wine enthusiasts. The characteristics of Falcon's Perch Pinot Noir are a direct result of these microclimates. The wine showcases a delicate balance of red fruit flavors, with hints of earthy undertones. The cooling breezes help to preserve the natural acidity of the grape, contributing to a crisp and refreshing taste experience. The varied soil types, meanwhile, add complexity to the wine, with subtle notes of spice and mineral that enhance its overall structure and mouthfeel. Monterey County's unique combination of climate and soil makes it an exceptional region for growing Pinot Noir. The region's cool summers and mild winters allow for a slow ripening process, which helps to preserve the delicate flavors and aromas of the grape. This, coupled with the varied soil types, results in wines that are both elegant and complex, making them highly sought after by wine connoisseurs. The Role of Oak in Winemaking Oak aging is an important step in winemaking, particularly for Pinot Noir, as it significantly affects the flavor and complexity of the wine. The choice of oak barrel, whether French or American, can impart subtle notes of vanilla, spice, and toast to the wine. French oak, known for its rich, complex flavors, is often preferred by winemakers looking to add depth and structure to their Pinot Noir wines. American oak, on the other hand, provides a more subtle influence, adding hints of caramel and toasty notes without overpowering the delicate fruit and floral flavors of the grape. Winemakers at J. Lohr, for instance, use oak aging to enhance the structure and mouthfeel of their Pinot Noir wines. By carefully selecting the type and age of the oak barrels, they can balance the wine's delicate fruit and floral notes with the subtle nuances of oak. This approach ensures that the wine maintains its varietal characteristics while gaining complexity and depth from the aging process. The result is a Pinot Noir that is both elegant and full-bodied, with a rich, layered flavor profile that is highly appealing to wine enthusiasts. Learn more about J. Lohr Estates Falcon's Perch Pinot Noir at Seneca Wine & Liquor J. Lohr Estates Falcon's Perch Pinot Noir has fruit-forward notes, balanced with earthy and spicy undertones. For those seeking to enhance their wine experience, consider pairing this Pinot Noir with curated cheese sets, using appropriate glassware, and employing tools like wine aerators and preservers. To discover more about J. Lohr Estates Falcon's Perch Pinot Noir and other fine wines, visit Seneca Wine & Liquor at 8630 Seneca Turnpike, New Hartford, NY 13413, or contact them at (315) 724-8672, seneca@horsestailgroup.com, or explore their offerings online at shopsenecawine.com.