2006 Martinelli Zinfandel Giuseppe & Luisa Vineyard
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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
Medium red. Powerfully scented bouquet of raspberry, cherry and blueberry, complicated by gingerbread, black tea and espresso. Juicy, densely packed red and dark berry flavors are enlivened by zesty acidity, which leavens the sheer sweetness of the fruit. Admirably fresh and balanced for such a big, deep, dense and full-flavored wine. Leaves a strong impression of candied dark berry flavors in its wake. This would be great with smoked brisket.
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.