1997 Rochioli “Estate” Pinot Noir

($30): This wine is a great way to tell what the single vineyard bottlings from Rochioi might be like. That said, I’m looking forward to the fall release. Cherry and beet aromas with a dash of spice. New oak rears its head and dominates for a while and then simmers down to a dull roar. Good round fruit on the palate with a spice frame and the ever present oak in the background. Still pretty tight, I’d give it six months to a year to chill out and the drink it over the next three to five years. If you open it now, decant and air it for 30 minutes or so.

JD (3/99)