2004 Pinot Noir - Russian River Valley / Rochioli Vineyard

GRAPE SOURCE
The Rochioli Vineyard consists of approximately 128 planted acres, of which half is various clones of Pinot Noir. The fruit for this bottling came from a 13 acre block that borders the Russian River on its west bank. It was planted in 1995 from cuttings taken from the original “mother” block planted in 1969. Though growers did not have access to the many fine clones available today, Joe Rochioli was far ahead of his years by selecting Pommard Clone for his initial plantings.

WINEMAKING
Joe Rochioli grows some of the most amazing and highly sought after fruit in all of California. Credit the complex mix of grapevine maturity, clones, rootstocks, microclimates, soils and most certainly Joe’s insight for the amazing quality. Harvest occurred during the cool, early morning hours to protect the quality and integrity of the fruit during delivery and processing. Cold soak and open-top tank fermentation took place over a period of twelve days … the time required to extract the desired flavor and color without releasing excessive tannins into the wine. The resulting wine is elegant and seductive, yet rich and complex.

WINEMAKER'S NOTES
Enticing aromas of black raspberry, cherry, violet and sweet tobacco lead to a huge expression of Rainier cherry and plum fruit with a hint of gingersnap and coriander spice. A seductive, full-bodied, layered Pinot Noir that deserves several more years of bottle aging. For a great Indian summer dinner, enjoy with Lamb Shish Kababs.

Bottled: December 2005
Winemaker: Gary Farrell
Varietal Composition: 100% Pinot Noir
Alcohol: 14.4%
Case Production: 396
Acid/pH: 0.69/3.39
Released: September 2006
Appellation: Russian River Valley

PAST VINTAGES
2003 Pinot Noir - Russian River Valley, Rochioli Vineyard
2002 Pinot Noir - Russian River Valley, Rochioli Vineyard