Ramey Chardonnay Rochioli 2021

Region and Vineyards

Rochioli Vineyard, located in the heart of Sonoma County's Russian River Valley, has been under vine since the late 1950s and is now farmed by the third generation of the Rochioli family. This legendary site is known for its cool climate and alluvial soils, producing Chardonnay of outstanding freshness and definition. The 2021 bottling draws fruit primarily from the Mid-40 block (82%) and River block (18%), two parcels recognized for their distinct character and clonal selections.

Soils consist of Yolo sandy loam and overwash, formed from sedimentary deposits in alluvial fans. These soils encourage deep rooting and promote drainage, concentrating flavor and mineral tension in the wine. Clonal material includes Clone 5 and Clone 76, planted between 1989 and 1998, which contribute to the wine's aromatic complexity and structure. The vineyard's naturally low yields and meticulous farming make it one of Sonoma's most iconic Chardonnay sources.

Winemaking

This Chardonnay is made entirely from whole-cluster pressed fruit, a gentle approach that minimizes phenolic extraction and highlights delicacy. Fermentation is carried out using native yeasts in barrel, with full malolactic fermentation also completed using native flora. The wine is aged on its lees for added depth, with bâtonnage (lees stirring) employed to enrich mouthfeel and texture.

Matured for 20 months in French oak barrels, of which 20% were new (from François Frères and Taransaud Beaune), the wine was traditionally fined but bottled without filtration to preserve purity. Harvested on August 31 at 22.9° Brix, the final wine reflects the 2021 vintage's cool, even growing conditions, resulting in a poised Chardonnay with restrained alcohol and excellent acid structure.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Pale gold with silver reflections, brilliant and youthful.
• Aroma: Lifted notes of lemon curd, pear skin, white peach, and chamomile, with hints of flint, hazelnut, and wet stone.
• Palate: A refined and textural profile reveals layers of citrus, green apple, and almond cream. The palate is linear and focused, with vibrant acidity, discreet oak, and a saline, mineral finish.

Did you know?

Ramey Wine Cellars is among the pioneers of Californian Chardonnay crafted in the Burgundian tradition, emphasizing native fermentation, extended lees aging, and minimal intervention. The Rochioli Vineyard, often associated with top-tier Pinot Noir, also produces Chardonnay of exceptional pedigree. This is the seventh single-vineyard release of Rochioli Chardonnay by Ramey—a collaboration that reflects a deep respect for place and tradition.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Grilled sea bass with beurre blanc: The wine's acidity and texture harmonize beautifully with delicate white fish and buttery sauces.
• Poulet rôti aux herbes: A classic roast chicken pairs effortlessly with the wine's orchard fruit and subtle oak.
• Tagliolini al tartufo: Truffle's earthiness highlights the Chardonnay's lees complexity and savory length.
• Aged goat cheese: The wine's mineral edge and creaminess make a perfect match for tangy, mature cheeses.

History of Ramey Wine Cellars

David Ramey established Ramey Wine Cellars in 1996, following a remarkable career that positioned him as one of California’s most influential winemakers. Originally from Seattle, David pursued a degree in oenology at UC Davis, graduating in 1979. His formative years included work at the prestigious Château Pétrus in Bordeaux, where he developed a deep respect for Old World winemaking techniques. This experience profoundly shaped his philosophy of crafting balanced, terroir-driven wines.

Upon returning to California, David worked at several prominent wineries, including Chalone, Dominus Estate, and Chalk Hill Estate Vineyards & Winery. During this time, he introduced transformative practices such as native yeast fermentation, extended sur lie aging, and barrel fermentation, bridging the best of European tradition with California’s bold, fruit-forward style. These methods became hallmarks of his approach and influenced an entire generation of winemakers.

In 1996, David and his wife Carla founded Ramey Wine Cellars, beginning with just two barrels of Chardonnay sourced from the Hyde Vineyard in Carneros. This inaugural vintage quickly garnered acclaim, establishing Ramey as a leader in California’s Chardonnay renaissance. Over the next decade, the winery expanded its portfolio to include Cabernet Sauvignon, Claret, and Syrah, focusing on single-vineyard expressions from Sonoma and Napa.

A turning point came in the early 2000s, when Ramey’s wines gained widespread recognition from critics, earning spots on Wine Spectator’s Top 100 and accolades from Wine Enthusiast and The Wine Advocate. David’s vision, rooted in producing wines with structure, elegance, and longevity, resonated with collectors and casual enthusiasts alike. His commitment to quality and innovation solidified Ramey’s position among California’s elite wineries.

Today, Ramey Wine Cellars remains a family-operated winery, with Carla overseeing operations and their children, Claire and Alan, actively involved. The winery reflects David’s philosophy of “classicism with a modern sensibility,” producing wines that honor both traditional craftsmanship and contemporary innovation.

Region and Vineyards

Ramey sources grapes from some of California’s most prestigious appellations, including the Sonoma Coast, Russian River Valley, Fort Ross-Seaview, Oakville, and Napa Valley, as well as managing estate vineyards. Key partnerships with iconic sites like Hyde Vineyard, Ritchie Vineyard, and Pedregal Vineyard ensure access to top-quality fruit.

• Sonoma Coast and Russian River Valley: Cool-climate vineyards producing vibrant, mineral-driven Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.
• Fort Ross-Seaview: Coastal, high-altitude sites ideal for elegant Chardonnay with complex textures.
• Napa Valley: The source of structured and age-worthy Cabernet Sauvignons from renowned sites like Oakville and Mt. Veeder.
• Oak Knoll District: Known for balanced wines with refined richness.

The winery emphasizes sustainability, employing practices that promote soil health, biodiversity, and water conservation to preserve the vitality of its vineyards for future generations.

Wine Range of Ramey Wine Cellars

Ramey Wine Cellars offers a diverse range of wines, each reflecting the richness and diversity of California’s top wine regions:

• Chardonnay: Renowned for precision, richness, and balance, including single-vineyard gems like Ritchie Vineyard and Hyde Vineyard.
• Cabernet Sauvignon: Powerful and elegant, with standout wines such as Pedregal Vineyard and the proprietary Annum blend.
• Claret: A Bordeaux-style blend that is approachable, versatile, and crafted for immediate enjoyment.
• Pinot Noir: From cool-climate sites, showcasing finesse and vibrancy.
• Syrah: Limited-production wines with deep complexity and Rhône-inspired character.

Did you know?

David Ramey is a trailblazer in California winemaking, credited with innovations like native yeast fermentation and extended sur lie aging, now standard practices in premium wineries. Many of his protégés have gone on to establish successful wineries, spreading his philosophy of balance and innovation throughout the industry.