2004 Pinot Noir - Russian River Valley / Rochioli-Allen Vineyards

GRAPE SOURCE
The Rochioli and Allen Vineyard blocks consist of over 150 planted acres, of which half are various clones of pinot noir. The fruit for this bottling came primarily from a 3.7 acre block that was planted in 1974. 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.

Allen Vineyard, located on Westside Road, was planted in the 1970’s by the Rochioli family. These blocks are adjacent to the Rochioli Vineyards, in one of the finest growing regions in the state. This is one of the oldest plantings of pinot noir in the Russian River Valley and one of the most desirable fruit sources for premium pinot noir producers.

WINEMAKING
This is some of the most amazing fruit in all of California. The complex mix of grapevine maturity, clone and rootstock selection, microclimate, soils and most certainly the dedication and insight of Joe Rochioli drive the unique quality of these grapes. The fruit is always hand harvested in the cool, early morning hours, to protect the quality and integrity during delivery and processing. Cold soak and open-top tank fermentation took place over a period of eight to fourteen days. The time required to extract the desired flavor and color without releasing excessive tannins into the wine was carefully monitored. The resulting wine is elegant and seductive, yet rich and complex.

WINEMAKER'S NOTES
The 2004 Rochioli-Allen Pinot Noir exhibits aromas of black raspberry, ripe cherry, violet and sweet tobacco leading to a huge expression of Rainier cherry and black plum fruit with a hint of gingersnap and coriander spice. The wine is seductive, full-bodied and layered and would benefit from several more years of bottle aging. This wonderful Pinot Noir pairs beautifully with Lamb, Shish Kabobs or grilled pork tenderloin.

Bottled: December 2, 2004
Winemaker: Gary Farrell/Susan Reed
Varietal Composition: 100% Pinot Noir
Alcohol: 14.3%
Case Production: 313
Acid/pH: 0.71/3.36
Released: March 2007
Appellation: Russian River Valley

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