2012 J. Rochioli Pinot Noir Three Corner Vineyard

In this lineup, the 2012 Pinot Noir Three Corner stands out for its firm, tannic personality and darker tonalities of fruit. Black cherries, plums, menthol, spices and licorice blossom in the glass as this resonant, expressive Pinot shows off its personality. Violets, rose petals and sweet spices add gorgeous nuance to the powerful finish. I would give the 2012 another year or two in bottle.

From a 3.5-acre parcel, the 2012 Pinot Noir Three Corners is staggering. A phenomenal bouquet of kirsch, black raspberries, black currants, graphite and lavender soars from the glass of this full-bodied, opulent, stunningly rich Pinot. With very good acidity, freshness and delineation, this explosively rich, intense yet impeccably well-balanced, pure Pinot Noir can be enjoyed over the next decade or more. Most knowledgeable people in the wine world have enormous respect for the integrity, honesty and exceptionally high quality of the wines emanating from the Rochioli Vineyards in the Russian River area. Currently, Tom Rochioli runs the show, and if you are not on their mailing list, chances are you only have an opportunity to purchase their Estate Chardonnay, Estate Pinot Noir, and possibly their Sauvignon Blanc. Mailing list customers have access to their best single vineyard wines. The consistency of these wines, even in less than ideal vintages, has been remarkable over my career. When I saw Tom Rochioli in October, he was thrilled with what 2012 had provided, and was even more excited by the fact that 2013 may be even better. The Pinot Noirs are largely produced from different clonal materials, and each parcel represents different blocks within the Rochioli estate vineyards. Tel. (707) 433-2305