2006 Martinelli Chardonnay Charles Ranch
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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
Yellow-gold. Fresh melon, peach, smoked meat, toasty lees, iodine and white flowers on the nose, perked up by exotic Indian spices; lots going on here! Deep, chewy orchard and pit fruit flavors are firmed by juicy acidity and underscored by brown butter, herbs and spices, with smoky lees carrying into the finish. Offers remarkable vivacity for such power and depth, and a finish that refuses to let up. For the quality, this is an absolute steal.
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.