La Rochelle 2012 Saralee’s Vineyard Pinot Meunier – Wine of the Week Review
Price: $38
Rating: 15/20
Region: Russian River Valley, California
Varietal: 100 percent Pinot Meunier
Production: 866 cases
Alcohol: 13.9 percent
Tasting Notes: La Rochelle Winery is named after a town in France which Pierre Pellier sailed from in 1854 on his way to California. The founder of Mirassou Winery is known for introducing Pinot Noir to the Golden State. Fast-forward to the 2000s. Mirassou was sold to the Gallo family in 2002, and shortly after, sixth-generation descendants Daniel and Peter Mirassou started La Rochelle. In 2005, the brothers sold the brand to their cousin, Steven Kent Mirassou, who produces the wines at his Livermore Valley winery, Steven Kent. La Rochelle provides the focus for Steven Kent Mirassou’s attachment to all things Pinot. The only source of the winery’s Pinot Meunier, the 275-acre Saralee’s Vineyard contains just three acres planted with this grape varietal. The 2012 bottling boasts heady aromas of plum, rose petal and baking spice. In the mouth, it reveals intense red fruit flavors, bright acidity and a lengthy finish.
Food Pairings: Red snapper, roast duck, pork belly, quinoa salad
For more information, visit La Rochelle Winery’s official website
Other Pinot Meuniers we have tasted:
La Follette 2010 Pinot Meunier Van der Kamp Vineyard
Domaine Chandon 2011 Pinot Meunier
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