2016 Gary Farrell Rochioli Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

13.5% alc., pH 3.44, TA 0.67, 598 cases, $80. This bottling includes three blocks planted in 1974m 1995 and 2000, where some of the vines come from cuttings taken from the original “mother” block planted in 1968. Grapes harvested in early morning, 80% gently de-stemmed into open-top tanks. 20% of the hand-selected bunches were added to the top of the tank as whole clusters and the fruit underwent a 5-7 day cold soak before fermentation started. After fermentation, the newly fermented wine underwent a 10-15 day extended maceration. Aged 15 months on the primary lees in French oak barrels, 40% new. · Moderately light ruby red color in the glass. Pleasing scents of cherry, applewood, earthy flora and a hint of oak. A “light and bright” styled wine featuring a core of juicy red cherry fruit wrapped in fine grain tannins. Excellent harmony, with impressive length and grip on the spiced cherry finish. Score: 93. Reviewed July 21, 2018

Winery: Gary Farrell Vineyards & Winery
From article: Recent Sips of Pinot Noir & Chardonnay