2007 Martinelli Pinot Noir Moonshine Ranch
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Tasting notes
Deep red. Powerful aromas of dark berries, cherry compote and mulberry, with a smoky mineral undertone. Fleshy dark berry flavors are framed by velvety tannins and given gentle lift by an exotic floral quality. The finish repeats the deep cherry and mineral notes. A distinctly rich, weighty style of pinot that will work well with rich braised meats.
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
The 2007 Pinot Noir Moonshine Ranch (created from Dijon Clones 113, 114, and 115) exhibits broad plum, cherry, and clove-like scents, medium to full body, soft tannins, and an attractive fruit intensity. It is reminiscent of a premier cru from the Cote de Beaune. Enjoy it over the next several years. 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
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.