A perfect zin at a perfect age. This 17.3 beauty drinks like 14.5 at most and is elegant as can be. Soft red fruits, with gentile acidity and velvety soft tannins. Just lovely! — a month ago
Wow!! Thanksgiving miracle #2! Been holding on to this Martinelli for a few years, and glad I took it out this year. It could still go for several more years, but knowing how good it is allows the search for more! 15.9% alcohol is steep, but it does not overpower Martenelli’s brilliant handling of their Zinfandel grapes. Almost like a fine Pinot Noir from the Bourgogne region. The nose is more perfume than fruit. Herbs, spices and a bit of pepper. It was truly the wine of the night. — 3 months ago
One of the less desirable vintages and still an amazing wine. Full and rich but balanced and not “hot” at all, which is impressive at 16.5% alcohol. Great example of why Martinelli Ziba can’t be beat, fits nicely between a “fancier” option to Giuseppe and Luisa but not quite as special occasion as Jackass Hill. — a month ago
Classic Martinelli Pinot. Still fairly tight even after an hour breathing, really only fully opened next day. Could still age a few more years with no issue. — 2 months ago
Prunes in a good way on open. Got flabby and syrupy after an hour or so. Drink. It’s done. — 16 days ago
Ripe and round...nice inky dark color and chewy texture. No discernible tannin or alcohol (though listed at 16.3)... the wine is nicely resolved at 10 years. Black fruit, pencil lead, and spice notes. A well grown and produced example of California Zinfandel at ten years. Another example that Zinfandel can age gracefully. — a month ago
Delectable! — 2 months ago
Vanessa
This wine is medium ruby. On the nose it has medium intensity of youthful aromas. Aromas include primary notes of candied black cherry, cherry cola, raspberry, rhubarb, also violet, and black licorice; it offers prominent secondary aromas of vanilla, nutmeg, and clove. It’s a dry wine with medium(+) acidity, a medium body(+), high alcohol, medium tannins, and medium(+) intensity in flavors consistent with the nose. This wine has a medium(+) finish.
This is a powerhouse of a Pinot Noir. It’s intense. It’s delicious. I believe it is capable of being consumed now with pleasure, but has the structure to age. With age I imagine it will soften and grow interesting tertiary characteristics.
Martinelli, Bondi Home Ranch Vineyard, Estate Grown Pinot Noir. Vintage 2017. ABV 15.5% 👀 — 23 days ago