2001 Martinelli Zinfandel Jackass Vineyard
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Tasting notes
From the renowned Jackass Vineyard, the 2001 Zinfandel (a mere 14.9% alcohol, rather low for this vineyard) exhibits a dark plum/garnet color in addition to a complex nose of plums, figs, smoked game, sweet and sour cherries, black currants, and earth. Medium to full-bodied with surprisingly good acidity, it is, to date, the most elegant, well-delineated, vibrant Zinfandel made from this incredibly steep hillside vineyard. Drink it over the next 5-7 years. Tel. (707) 525-0570
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
Good full ruby. Musky, pungent aromas of dark berries, cracked pepper, espresso and resiny herbs; less roasted than the Giuseppe and Luisa. Then tight and primary in the mouth, with less early sweetness. Slightly green-edged, even a bit pinched, for this bottling. But this style of zin may well ripen and expand with bottle aging.
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.