Rochioli is one of the true pioneers in Russian River Valley, with a winemaking history dating back to the the late 1950′s. Although best known for their world class Pinot Noir, Rochioli also produces remarkable Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc. I’ve blogged about Rochioli previously in Zinfandel Chronicles Power Rankings and the Fab 5 of Mailing Lists.
Straw colored and 14.5% ABV. Nose of freshly cut grass, citrus and lemon curd. Tart with tons of acidity. Rich and thick mouthfeel. Grapefruit, pears, melon and spice on the palate. Missing a little bit of the lushness I often associate with a Rochioli Sauvignon Blanc. Drink this summer.
My rating: 89 points.
The ’12 version is available at retail and likely at the winery. Cost will be right around $30.
At present time (and for the foreseeable future) buying from Rochioli via the mailing list is not an option. The Estate wines do show up at retail periodically, and the winery’s Russian River Valley tasting room is still open for public tasting. They may only be pouring a couple of wines, but it’s a great opportunity to buy a bottle for a picnic on their lovely patio and a few more to bring home for the cellar.
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