J. Rochioli 2013 Chardonnay
Joe Rocchioli Sr. legacy began in 1911 when he immigrated to America along with his parents, Michele and Menichina Rocchioli (they later dropped the second “c”). Originally from a small village just outside of Lucca, the Rocchioli’s were one of many Italian families that arrived in New York, made their way across the country, and settled in Northern California. In 1934 Joe Rochioli Jr. was born and the family moved to a 125-acre property nearby called Fenton Acres (same location where Rochioli Vineyards is today). At that time, grapes were a small part of what was grown here and much of the land was dedicated to hops, string beans and prunes. Although Joe Sr. really considered himself a crop farmer, he planted popular “jug wine” blending grapes like French Colombard, Early Burgundy and Valdeguié (Napa Gamay). By the mid-1950s Joe Sr. had raised enough money to purchase the Fenton Acres property. Now as a third-generation winemaker, Tom is proud of his family’s heritage and the significant contributions to farming and winemaking that both his father and grandfather made over the years. J. Rochioli Vineyard has a reputation as one of California’s finest wine producers.
I see an intense pale yellow color and notice wonderful aromas of fresh fruit and citrus. Tasting the wine I notice a layer of complexity, finding white peaches, green apples, Asian pears and a touch of melon on the palate with subtle citrus flavors and a crisp mineral finish with generous toasty oak notes. Grab a bottle, only 1232 cases were made! Outstanding!
Cheers!