2006 Chardonnay - Russian River Valley/Rochioli-Allen Vineyards
96 points, Editor's Choice - Wine Enthusiast Magazine
92 points - Wine News
GRAPE SOURCE
* Rochioli Vineyard; clone 5 and Dijon clone 76 planted in the early 1990’s in a block adjacent to the Russian River.
* Allen Vineyard; clone 15 and Dijon clone 76 used by Joe Rochioli for this contiguous property to the south.
Each clone and rootstock was carefully selected for their compatibility to soil type, geography and orientation to the sun.
WINEMAKING
Early morning hand harvesting and hand sorting at the winery, prior to whole-cluster pressing, assured the proper respect was paid to this fine fruit. After natural settling of grape solids, the clean juice was fermented in a combination of new and one-year old French oak barrels. Multiple yeasts were selected to enhance additional elements of flavor and complexity. Malolactic fermentation was encouraged to soften the natural acidity and add roundness and complexity to the wine. The wine was aged in 100% French Oak, 50% new and 50% one year old. The structure building Rochioli fruit marries perfectly with the sensual fruit from the Allen blocks to create this luscious, perfectly balanced Chardonnay.
TASTING NOTES
The 2006 Rochioli-Allen Chardonnay has fresh aromas of ripe apple, spiced pear, and a jasmine floral character complimented by warm brioche, vanilla cream and a chalk dust or gravel-like minerality. The palate follows the nose with added stone fruits like fresh nectarine and white peach along with notes of honeysuckle. This is a luxurious, complete wine with generous fruit and a rich mouth feel. While full and supple, the crisp, refreshing acidity provides balance and a mouth-watering finish. Enjoy now or age for three to five years. Try this wine with pan-roasted chicken breast and pancetta sautéed brussel sprouts.
Bottled: June 2007
Winemaker: Susan Reed
Varietal Composition: 100% Chardonnay
Alcohol: 14.3%
Case Production: 204
Acid/pH: 3.37/5.90 gm/L
Released: November 2008
Appellation: Russian River Valley
PAST VINTAGES
2004 Chardonnay - Russian River Valley / Rochioli-Allen Vineyards2003 Chardonnay - Russian River Valley / Rochioli-Allen Vineyards
2002 Chardonnay - Russian River Valley / Rochioli-Allen Vineyards