2006 J. Rochioli Chardonnay Rachael's Vineyard

The 2006 Chardonnay Rachael's Vineyard (Mt. Eden clone) possesses classic acacia flower, white currant, brioche, peach, and orange blossom characteristics with a hint of smoky hazelnuts in the background. This fabulously rich effort gets my nod as Rochioli’s finest 2006 Chardonnay, although all of them are impressive. It will age effortlessly for 7-8 years. In 2006, there is even a smaller amount of wine from Tom Rochioli than usual. Yields were so small and there was so little wine from the Three Corner Vineyard that it was blended with the East Block Pinot. Rochioli sells the majority of the fruit from their 140 acres of vineyards in the Russian River to other producers, which I find remarkable given the quality of what winemaker Tom Rochioli is able to achieve in addition to his superb vineyard sites. Previously recommended: 2005 Chardonnay Estate (92), 2005 Chardonnay Rachael’s Vineyard (96), 2005 Chardonnay River Block (95), 2005 Chardonnay South River (94), 2005 Pinot Noir East Block (94), 2005 Pinot Noir Estate (91), 2005 Pinot Noir Little Hill Vineyard (94), 2005 Pinot Noir Three Corner Vineyard (93), 2005 Pinot Noir West Block (97). Tel. (707) 433-2305; Fax (707) 433-2358