Hailing from the esteemed Russian River Valley in Sonoma County near the city of Healdsburg is this beautiful pinot noir. The Russian River has some of the best conditions for growing pinot and chardonnay in the United States and the world. This area and in particular Healdsburg, holds a special place in my heart as it is where I lived during harvest this year. If you find yourself visiting wineries in Sonoma Country you have got to visit downtown Healdsburg, one of my favorite cities (well villages I guess, its not that big). As one winemaker told me, "we are just a bunch of hillbillies making great wine." That statement, for me, in it's purest form, is exactly what making wine and life is about around here. It is not 'hillybilly' in a negative connotation but rather a way of living: laid back, caring, sustainable, fresh food, open, approachable, friendly, and romantic. I have never felt at home in a city more than I have with Healdsburg and Sonoma County. And on to the tasting.......
2001 J. Rochioli East Block, Russian River Valley
consumed Friday Nov. 12, 2010, with friends, Retail $159.99
One of the top pinot noirs in California and the world. In fact for the single vineyard selections (like this East Block) there is a 5-6 year wait to get on the buying list direct from the winery so to obtain these bottles you must go the retail route (typically boutique wine shops). However, you can get their Estate (entry level) pinot noirs directly from the winery.
This 9 year old wine was absolutely stunning. By far the best wine I have ever had the pleasure of drinking. It was bright fruit dancing on the tongue, black cherries, velvety, rich, smooth, refined, pretty, earthy, and had a long structured finish. YUMMMMMMMMM! Great drinking wine, ready now!
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