Bottle Notes, Chardonnay

2005 Rochioli Chardonnay River Block Vineyard – Bottle notes

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.

Rochioli recently published a detailed map of the Estate Vineyard that is required viewing for fans of the winery.

Lightly straw colored. 14.2% ABV. Pears, honeysuckle and butterscotch on the nose. Full bodied with great acidity. Lime, lemon curd, fig, spice, caramel and green apple on the palate. Super domestic Chardonnay that should be mentioned with the likes of Peter Michael, Kongsgaard and Kistler. Rochioli deserves acclaim for their Chardonnay as much as they do for their Pinot Noir. All of the single vineyard Chards age exceptionally well. Drink over the next 1-2 years.

My rating: 94 points.

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.

The current vintage of the South River Vineyard Chardonnay was approximately $72 off the mailing list.

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