Bottle Notes, Pinot Noir

2005 J. Rochioli Pinot Noir East 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.

East Block was the oldest Pinot Noir plot in Rochioli Vineyard. The last vintage was 2011 and this portion of the vineyard had to be replanted.

Crimson in color. 14.2% ABV. Brooding nose of red and black fruits, cola, mushrooms and forest floor. Medium to full body with perfect acidity. Dark fruits and concentration that defy 15 years of bottle age. Black cherry, black raspberry, sarsaparilla, earth and minerals on the palate. Tremendous length on the finish. The structure and vibrancy of this Pinot Noir is impressive. I have another bottle, that I can say with confidence, will drink well for another 2-4 years.

My rating: 96 points.

The single vineyard Pinot Noir mailer will come out in the Fall of 2020.

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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