Bottle Notes, Chardonnay

2009 J. Rochioli Chardonnay Rachel’s 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.

Rachel’s Vinyeard is a small one acre plot of Mt. Eden clone Chardonnay planted in 1994.

Gold in color. 14.2% ABV. Pretty nose of tropical fruits, lemon oil, smoke and minerals. Full bodied with remarkable acidity. Rich and plush with tremendous mouthfeel. Pears, butterscotch, creme brulee and tangerine on the palate. The finish lingers for an eternity. Just a stunning Chardonnay that has aged gracefully. Easily competes with the best California examples of this variety. Drink over the next 1-2 years.

My rating: 94 points.

The 2018 version of this wine will be released next 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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