2011 Rochioli Russian River Pinot

notes:

90 points Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

The 2011 Pinot Noir Estate is fleshy, seductive and quite pretty. Freshly cut flowers, dark red cherries, mint and anise are nicely balanced. A vinous, inviting Pinot, the 2011 is best suited for drinking over the next few years. There is a tremendous amount of early appeal here. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2018. Tom Rochioli describes 2011 as a cold vintage with lower ripeness and alcohol levels than the norm. Considering these are usually fairly rich, bold wines (the style Rochioli prefers), the combination of a cooler year and the inherent depth that is the house signature is particularly appealing. (4/2013)

90 points Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar

Bright ruby-red. Intense, spice- and floral-accented aromas of candied red fruits, with a hint of smokiness in the background. Taut and focused on the palate, offering lively strawberry and raspberry flavors that gain weight with aeration. Closes on a sweet note, with very soft tannins and lingering berry and rose notes (5/2013)

K&L Notes

One of the classic Russian River producers, Rochioli's vineyards have been in their family since 1938. Always in high demand and very consistent, the 2011 Pinot Noir comes mostly from their Sweetwater vineyard, with small amounts from many of their other great vineyards. The cooler nature of the 2011 vintage moderates the natural opulence of the Rochioli Pinot Noir, and 15 months in French Oak complete the classic Rochioli style.