2020 J. Rochioli Pinot Noir River Block Vineyard
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Tasting notes
The 2022 Pinot Noir River Block opens with initial touches of tar and flint that give way to savory cranberry sauce, mushrooms, forest floor and nutmeg aromas. The medium-bodied palate is much more open at this youthful stage, offering kaleidoscopic berry, bitters and spice flavors. It’s structured by velvety tannins and mouthwatering acidity and has a long, bright, spicy finish. (EB)
Critic scores
Average Score
The Wine Advocate
The Wine Advocate
More reviews and scores
The 2022 Pinot Noir River Block emerges from blocks planted in 1989—the oldest vines on the property—planted with the Rochioli clone, which is a cleaned-up version of Wente. Dark blue/purplish fruit, lavender, spice, menthol and licorice fill out the layers nicely. The 2022 was done with fully destemmed grapes, which really allows the purity of the fruit to shine. (AG)
Matured for 16 months in 73% new oak, the 2020 Pinot Noir Rochioli Riverblock Vineyard is exuberant and fruity, its red cherry fruit accented by tones of charcuterie, tobacco, bitters and allspice. The palate is surprisingly soft and supple, with addicting, spicy flavors. It unwinds and gains intensity as it spends time in the glass, so offer it an hour or two in the decanter. 452 cases were made. (EB)
The 2020 Pinot Noir River Block is another tasty wine in this range from Tom Rochioli. It offers up kirsch, succulent red cherries, blood orange, spice and dried flowers, all in a mid-weight, fruity style that is ideal for dinking over the next handful of years. (AG)