Reichwage Winery was founded in 2014 by Max Reichwage to fulfill a dream of producing small quantities of classically made Pinot Noir and Zinfandel. Max is the owner and winemaker. Before starting the winery in 2014, Max studied chemistry at the University of Michigan, and viticulture and enology at University California Davis. In 2014 Max also purchased Mancini Ranch Vineyard which dates back to 1922 and is situated in the Russian River Valley at the intersection of Piner and Olivet.
I was recently sent samples of some of the new releases.
2022 Reichwage White Wine Mancini Ranch – Golden in color. 13.1% ABV. From vines planted between 1922 and 1924. Primarily Palomino, Muscadelle and French Colombard. Savory nose of stone fruits, lemon oil and flowers. Full bodied with exquisite acidity. Lush and rich with tremendous mouth feel. Pear, peach and Meyer lemon on the palate. The finish is long and supple. What most white blends strive for. Absolutely delicious. Best over the next several years. $40 at the winery. My rating: 94 points.
2021 Reichwage Carignane Mancini Ranch – Bright crimson in color. 13.8% ABV. 75% Carignane and 25% mixed varieties, from vines planted in 1922. Pretty nose of red fruits, citrus and flowers. Medium body with mouth watering acidity. Packed with juicy, bright fruits. Strawberry, raspberry, blood orange and earth on the palate. Exceptional length on the finish. Carignane as a stand alone doesn’t get much better than this. Best over the next 3-4 years. $45 at the winery. My rating: 95 points.
2021 Reichwage Zinfandel Mancini Ranch – Crimson in color. 14.5% ABV. 85% Zinfandel and 15% mixed varieties, from vines planted in 1922. Charming nose of red fruits, citrus, baking spices and earth. Medium body with perfect acidity. Light and fresh with elegant fruits. Cherry, cranberry, blood orange and pepper on the palate. Tremendous length on the finish. Beautiful Zinfandel that emphasizes finesse over power. Best over the next 3-4 years. $45 at the winery. My rating: 94 points.
I have been fortunate to try Reichwage wines going back many years and these were without question some of Max’s best work. Production at Reichwage is miniscule so you should consider signing up for the mailing list if you want to secure new releases. I look forward to visiting the new winery and tasting room in Sebastopol on my next visit to Sonoma.