2005 Martinelli Chardonnay Three Sisters Vineyard Sea Ridge Meadow
Market price
Buying options
Tasting notes
Previously recommended, but no tasting note given. Martinelli’s Zinfandel portfolio continues to grow, with as many as five different offerings now available. The 2006 and 2007 Jackass Hill Vineyard cuvees were not tasted at this visit. However, the other four wines I tasted, all from steep hillside vineyard sites with the newer plantings planted from bud wood of both the Jackass Hill and Jackass vineyards, were brilliant. They are among the fullest-bodied, headiest, most distinctive Zinfandels made in California. Tel. (707) 525-0570; Fax (707) 525-9463
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
Medium gold. Enticing aromas evoke melon, white peach, mango and yellow rose, with subtle leesiness adding depth and complexity. Deep pit and exotic fruit flavors are braced by zesty acidity, picking up mint and nutmeg with air. Becomes chewy on the finish but maintains energy and focus, leaving gingerbread and smoky minerals in its wake. The slowest to open and most youthful of this set of chardonnays; I'd hold it for at least another two years before cracking a bottle.
About the producer
Martinelli is a Sonoma benchmark for vineyard-designate bottlings—wines built to highlight how strongly a single site can shape Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Syrah, and Zinfandel. Across the range, the focus stays consistent: small-production bottlings that feel distinctly tied to where they’re grown.