2017 Martinelli Syrah Hop Barn Hill
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Tasting notes
Deep ruby purple, the 2017 Syrah Hop Barn Hill is closed on the nose at this youthful stage, with notes of rubber and tar taking time to dissipate. After some time in the glass, it reveals fresh mint leaves, cured meats, bitter chocolate and cassis with hints of olive and earth. The palate is full-bodied and packed with dark, chocolaty fruits. It has a firm, grainy frame and just enough freshness, finishing with a touch of warmth.
Critic scores
Average Score
The Wine Advocate
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
The 2017 Syrah Hop Barn Hill is the most powerful and overt of the four Syrahs I tasted. Wild red cherry, dried leaves, earthiness, spice, leather and cedar give the Hop Barn Hill tons of aromatic nuance. Bold and deeply expressive, the 2017 has so much going on.
The 2017 Syrah Hop Barn Hill is the most powerful and overt of the four Syrahs I tasted. Wild red cherry, dried leaves, earthiness, spice, leather and cedar give the Hop Barn Hill tons of aromatic nuance. Bold and deeply expressive, the 2017 has so much going on. (Drink between 2020-2030)
The 2015 Syrah Hop Barn Hill is very deep purple-black in color with a super intense nose of crushed black currants, black cherry preserves, plum pudding and fruitcake with touches of cigar box, star anise and espresso plus a waft of garrigue. Very big, very full-bodied and wonderfully opulent in the mouth, it offers tons of black fruit preserves and savory layers supported by firm, chewy tannins and just enough acidity, finishing long and mocha-laced. Only 36 cases were made.Our 2015 Hop Barn Hill Syrah has deep aromatics of black cherry, cassis, and allspice with firm acid on the palate and flavors including concentrated blackberry, tobacco and coffee bean.
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.