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 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.
2023 Reichwage White Wine Mancini Ranch – Straw colored. 13.1% ABV. Primarily Palomino, Mucadelle and French Colombard from vines planted a little over 100 years ago. Savory nose of stone fruits, lemon oil, toast and flowers. Full bodied with medium acidity. Lush, rich and oily. Pear, lemon and nutmeg on the palate. The finish is long, warm and supple. Really unique wine that will be best over the next 2-4 years. $40 at the winery. My rating: 92 points.
2022 Reichwage Carignane Mancini Ranch – Crimson in color. 13.8% ABV. 75% Carignane and 25% Mixed Blacks. Gorgeous nose of red fruits, citrus, baking spices and soil. Medium body with perfect acidity. Soft, supple and earthy. Cherry, strawberry and blood orange on the palate. Tremendous length on the finish. Very appealing Claret style Carignane from a treasured vineyard. Best over the next 4-6 years. $45 at the winery. My rating: 93 points.
2022 Reichwage Zinfandel Mancini Ranch – Crimson in color. 14.5% ABV. 85% Zinfandel and 15% Mixed Blacks. Glorious nose of bright red fruits, citrus, licorice and flowers. Medium body with exquisite acidity. Juicy, vibrant fruit in spades. Raspberry, strawberry, blood orange and a hint of earth on the palate. Exceptional length on the finish. This wine is all about finesse and charm and could not be more appealing. Best over the next 3-4 years. $45 at the winery. My rating: 95 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.