2008 J. Rochioli Chardonnay South River Vineyard
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Tasting notes
Green-tinged yellow. Powerful aromas of iodine, dried flowers and smoky minerals, plus a hint of dried pear. This is emphatically not about fruit and smells like catnip to this Chablis freak. The palate offers outstanding clarity and energy, with superb lift to the penetrating floral, herbal, pear and mineral flavors. Rich but strikingly elegant, with a long, smoky finish and great lightness of touch. Tom Rochioli told me that "this plot is basically just a bed of gravel."
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
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The 2008 Chardonnay South River (from an old Wente clone grown on steep hillsides) is made in more of a Chablis style than previous vintages. Its minerality is intertwined with citrus blossom, white currant, quince, and crushed rock notes. Full-bodied with terrific acidity, freshness, and delineation, this steely beauty is best consumed over the next 5-6 years. This is another beautiful portfolio of wines from Tom Rochioli. Since they all possess a similar style, one can quibble over just how much difference there is between all the different cuvees of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. However, there are subtle differences that I will do my best to articulate. With respect to his Pinot Noirs, Rochioli completely destems his grapes, does a cold soak for 4-5 days, and keeps the wines in 100% Francois Freres French cooperage for 14-16 months or less. The wines are racked directly from barrel to tank, and are bottled without fining or filtration. Tel. (707) 433-2305; Fax (707) 433-2358