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 has published a detailed map of the Estate Vineyard that is required viewing for fans of the winery.
This bottle was opened on day 7 of the #coronaviruswinechallenge. Please tag me on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter if you participate.
Light red in color. 14.5% ABV. Stunning nose of red fruits, cloves and damp forest floor. Medium body with exquisite acidity. Impressively concentrated. Well balanced and fruit forward. Bing cherry, cranberry, pomegranate and earth on the palate. Tremendous length on the finish. Such a stellar bottle of the Estate Pinot Noir from a less than optimal vintage. So much to like here. Best over the next several years.
My rating: 93 points.
The 2018 version of this wine was just released and very well might be available when the tasting room resumes business after the Corona Virus passes.
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 by appointment. 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 2018 Zinfandel Chronicles Power Rankings and the Fab 5 of Mailing Lists.