Rochioli is one of the true pioneers in Russian River Valley, with a winemaking history dating back to the the late 1950′s. In 1987 Rochioli released their first estate wine, the 1985 Rochioli Pinot Noir. Although best known for their world class Pinot Noir, Rochioli also produces remarkable Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc.
The winery recently published a detailed map of the Estate Vineyard that is required viewing for fans of the winery. East Block was the oldest Pinot Noir plot in Rochioli Vineyard. The last vintage was 2011 and this portion of the vineyard had to be replanted.
Light red in color. 14.2% ABV. Gorgeous nose of red fruits, cloves, sarsaparilla and forest floor. Light to medium body with tremendous acidity. Delicate and ethereal. Bing cherry, cranberry, minerals and mushrooms on the palate. The finish is perfection. Just about as good as Russian River Valley Pinot Noir gets. Drink over the next 1-2 years.
My rating: 95 points.
The Single Vineyard Pinot Noirs are released in the Fall and are only available to long time mailing list members.
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.
I’ve blogged about Rochioli previously in the The 2017 Zinfandel Chronicles Power Rankings and the Fab 5 of Mailing Lists.