1999 Pinot Noir Rochioli
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Tasting notes
The 1999 Pinot Noir Estate enjoys about one-third new French oak (all Francois Freres). The finest regular Pinot Rochioli has yet produced, it exhibits a dense ruby color as well as a gorgeous nose of black cherry jam intermixed with earth, smoke, vanillin, and spice. The grapes were picked very ripe, which is reflected in the wine's sweet black fruit character. Drink this impressive Pinot Noir over the next 4-5 years. Tel. (707) 433-2305; Fax (707) 433-2358
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
Deep cherry-red color. Explosive aromas of cherry jam, raspberry, smoke, earth and spice. Rich and sappy in the mouth, with terrific verve and lift thanks to harmonious, ripe acids. Concentrated and spicy. Finishes with fine tannins, brisk flavors and very good length. This is delicious. Based on this wine, I have little doubt that Tom Rochioli has produced his finest set of pinot noirs to date in '99, although he declined to show the recently bottled reserve wines, which will not be released until late summer or early fall.