Bottle Notes, Pinot Noir

2005 J. Rochioli Pinot Noir West 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. 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.

The West Block Vineyard grapes come from a 1.5 acre parcel of Rochioli Vineyard that was planted in 1969.

Crimson in color. 14.5% ABV. Stunning nose of dark fruits, cloves, pine needle and forest floor. Medium body with exquisite acidity. This Pinot Noir embodies grace and finesse from the very first sip. Cherry, strawberry, cranberry, earth and mushrooms on the palate. The finish is exceptionally long and seamless. Truly one of the very best California Pinot Noirs I can recall tasting. Fortunate to have another bottle in the cellar that I will check in on in the next 1-3 years.

My rating: 97 points.

The 2017 version of this wine will be released later this year.

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.

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