2008 J. Rochioli Pinot Noir River Block Vineyard
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Tasting notes
Bright medium red. Very pure aromas of rose, raspberry and blood orange, with a strong mineral undertone. Like liquid silk on entry, then lively yet seamless, with terrific density and vivacity to its strawberry, raspberry and spicecake flavors. Finishes impressively long, with mounting spiciness and zesty minerality. I really like this wine's precision.
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Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
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The 2008 Pinot Noir River Block Vineyard exhibits more cinnamon, allspice, plum, kirsch, and forest floor characteristics. From a vineyard planted in 1985, it also reveals an underlying flinty, mineral-like component. This is another beautiful portfolio of wines from Tom Rochioli. Since they all possess a similar style, one can quibble over just how much difference there is between all the different cuvees of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. However, there are subtle differences that I will do my best to articulate. With respect to his Pinot Noirs, Rochioli completely destems his grapes, does a cold soak for 4-5 days, and keeps the wines in 100% Francois Freres French cooperage for 14-16 months or less. The wines are racked directly from barrel to tank, and are bottled without fining or filtration. Tel. (707) 433-2305; Fax (707) 433-2358