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 recently published a detailed map of the Estate Vineyard that is required viewing for fans of the winery.
Light crimson in color. Almost translucent. 14.5% ABV. Pretty nose of red fruits, earth, flowers and cloves. Medium body with medium to strong acidity. Sappy and grippy on the palate. Flavors of Bing cherries, sarsaparilla, mushrooms and baking spices. Exceptional length on the finish. I feel like this will show even better with a couple more years in the cellar. Really delicious with upside potential. Best over the next 3-5 years.
My rating: 92 points.
The 2017 version of this wine will be released early next year and I suspect pricing will be around $60 per bottle.
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 2018 Zinfandel Chronicles Power Rankings and the Fab 5 of Mailing Lists.