Ralph & Lahni de Amicis, Napa, Sonoma, San Francisco
Rochioli Wines Rate
We stopped in at the Rochioli winery in the Russian River Valley with clients the other day and I was impressed by the beautiful new landscaping that they have added. The site had always seemed bare to me in contrast to the stunning views of their vineyards beyond the tasting room windows. Now the picnic tables sit within a charming ornamental and herb garden.
It seems like the upgrade outside has helped make the tasting more appealing. They used to only pour the wines that were left over after the wine club and restaurants got theirs, but thanks to the slower economy they are offering a better selection at the bar and it shows.
They have been on the permanent wine list at the White House for a long time so their reputation seriously rocks for a relatively small winery on a curve of Westside Road. They are tricky to spot because their sign is dark bronze and can only be seen if you are heading south.
The problem is many people are heading north from River Road. There is a small sign across the road that point towards the entrance. The best indicator is the looming building of the Hopkiln winery which is just to the north of Rochioli on the same side of the road.
I am going to upgrade their hospitality rating in our Sonoma iPhone app.
Ralph & Lahni de Amicis are authors of the Amicis Winery Guides (Find them on Amazon), and owners of Amicis Tours which does both group and private excursions. They are authors of over twenty books on health, design, business and travel. Their iPhone Apps, The Napa Valley Wine Tour, and The Sonoma Winery Tour are a tour guides approach to these beautiful area, complete with 1000’s of photos and insights. Their articles and products can be found on the sites http://www.amicistours.com and http://www.spaceandtime.com. Their Apps can be found at http://www.sutromedia.com/apps.html
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Call 707-235-2648 for Tours, Books & Seminars Copyright Ralph & Lahni de Amicis 2011 All tasting fees, hours, wine lists, etc are subject to change.