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.
Garnet in color. 14.2% ABV. Soaring nose of dark fruits, sassafras, cinnamon and forest floor. Big and robust with strong acidity. Black cherry, anise, cherry cola and baking spices on the palate. The finish is long and sappy. At 14 years of age I was expecting a Pinot Noir that was light and elegant. This wine was anything but that. Drink over the next 4-6 years.
My rating: 92 points.
The 2015 West Block will be released to the mailing list this Summer and should cost right around $110 per bottle. It will undoubtedly sell out quickly.
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 2016 Zinfandel Chronicles Power Rankings and the Fab 5 of Mailing Lists.
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