2022 Gary Farrell Vineyards – Barrel Auction Lot #30 Pinot Noir

This special selection comes from two separate blocks at Rochioli Vineyard that have never been picked and fermented separately. One of them sings vibrant, bright, jubilant characteristics, while the other offers depth, with rich, dark, earthy, ripe flavors. The 2022 vintage marked 40 years of the amazing partnership between Gary Farrell Winery and Rochioli Vineyards & Winery. The first vintage produced under the Gary Farrell label was in 1982 and the grapes came from Rochioli & Allen Vineyards. “Rochioli Special Selection” honors this long partnership with the legendary Joe Rochioli, who passed away on August 18, 2022.

Beginning in the late 1970s, while working with seminal Russian River Valley vintners such as Davis Bynum, Joe Rochioli, Tom Dehlinger and Robert Stemmler, Gary Farrell was instrumental in showcasing the world-class Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays of the nascent Russian River Valley AVA. Gary Farrell Winery continues its collaborative partnerships with top growers and its commitment to wines that capture the unique character of the vineyard.

Theresa Heredia, Director of Winemaking has achieved significant critical acclaim and is honored as a Sonoma County Innovator. “My approach to winemaking is very much about taking advantage of specific vineyard and fruit qualities,” says Theresa. This spectacular lot offers a bounty of aromas hinting at succulent Bing cherry, tamarind chutney, coriander and sweet pipe tobacco. A complex and exuberant palate boasts flavors of juicy, ripe red berries, blood orange, Darjeeling tea and fresh cedar. Power-packed and built to last, with substantial tannins and striking acidity, this one is a gem that can be savored now or in a decade.