The 2010 Chardonnay Estate is a gorgeous wine. Pears, flowers, spices and almonds are some of the notes that flow from this refined, textured Chardonnay. This is a very pretty entry-level wine from Tom Rochioli that captures the essence of the house style. I loved it. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2016. I came away deeply impressed by the wines I tasted with Tom Rochioli. The 2010 Chardonnays are absolutely gorgeous. The cold, late-harvest provides a wonderful balance to the inherent richness that is typically present in the wines. Rochioli is one of the later growers to pick. The 2010 Chardonnays were fermented in barrel. Rochioli stirred the lees every week until January, then once every few weeks until the wines were moved to tank in July. The wines spent three weeks in tank and were bottled in August 2011. The Pinot Noirs are stunning in both 2009 and 2010. As is the case throughout the Sonoma Coast, the 2009s are more consistent across the board, but the best 2010s may very well prove to be superior. For now what is certain is that the 2010 Pinots show a level of verve and focus that is missing from the 2009s. Either way, it’s hard to go wrong with any of these big, exuberant Pinots. Tom Rochioli is a bit of recluse, which means his wines remain known only to a relatively small group of consumers. Prices are very reasonable considering the quality of what is in the bottle.Tel. (707) 433-2305

A textbook example in how to make a Chardonnay that’s ripely fruity and oaky, yet maintains impeccable balance. The orange, apricot, green apple and lime flavors hit the jackpot, while brisk acidity and minerality provide equilibrium. Possesses that rare quality of elegance.——S.H.(3/1/2012)—— 91

While the apricot, orange and green apple flavors in this Chardonnay are strong and sweet, the wine is balanced by brisk acidity and a minerality that feels and tastes like a lick of steel. It’s a nice wine to drink now, although it’s pricey for what you get.——S.H.(3/1/2012)—— 87