2004 Martinelli Chardonnay Charles Ranch
Market price
Buying options
Tasting notes
Crystallized citrus peel and minerals on the nose; brighter than the Woolsey Road example. Then concentrated, chewy and dry, with a firm shape and good supporting spine. Initially tight but ultimately quite generous, with its 15.4% alcohol nicely managed.
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
Surprisingly evolved in color (light to medium gold), the 2004 Chardonnay Charles Ranch shows plenty of peach, orange marmalade, and apricot notes that are at odds with the evolved color. In the mouth, it is full-bodied with loads of structure, plenty of intensity, and a long, spicy finish. Stone fruits are clearly apparent in this wine, which responds positively to aeration. It should drink well for 3-5 years. This wine had just been bottled when I tasted it, so I suspect my ratings might be somewhat conservative. Before readers inundate the office with questions, the Martinellis were not happy with the Syrah vineyards in 2004 and did not make any wines. (Release date 9/06) 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.