The 2009 Pinot Noir Rosella’s is a gorgeous, sensual wine that sweeps across the palate with layers of dark red fruit. It reveals striking inner perfume, fabulous mid-palate density and terrific overall balance. Hints of licorice and mint add depth to the delicate finish. The main clones in the Rosella’s are Pisoni, Pommard 4 and 777. Roar gave the Rosella’s 65% new oak. Anticipated maturity: 2011-2019.
This is a set of sublime, elegant wines from Gary and Rosella Franscioni at Roar. The Franscionis own a number of vineyards, including Rosella’s, Sierra Mar and Garys’ (with the Pisoni family), all in the Santa Lucia Highlands. In addition to making their own wines, the Franscionis also sell fruit to a number of small, artisanal wineries. The Franscioni’s latest project is Sierra Mar, a dramatic hillside vineyard with multiple exposures and one isolated, striking plot that looks like a setting for an opening scene in a James Bond movie.
Tel. (831) 675-1681; www.roarwines.com
