2008 Martinelli Chardonnay Lolita Ranch
Estimated value
Buying options
Tasting notes
Bright gold. Powerful, musky aromas of poached pear, orange, porcini and smoky lees, with a note of iodine building with air. At once rich and lively, offering succulent orchard fruit flavors and a bitter note of orange pith. Picks up a licorice quality with air that carries through the long, sappy, gently smoky finish.
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
One of the biggest whites in terms of alcoholic potency (14.5%) is the 2008 Chardonnay Lolita Ranch. Aromas of caramelized oranges, white peaches and honeysuckle jump from the glass of this light greenish/gold-colored effort. More glycerin and unctuosity make this slightly more controversial given its thickness and richness. Nevertheless, there is zesty acidity and loads of weight and concentration. This is a classic California Chardonnay filled with character as well as personality. It should drink nicely for 5-7 years. The venerable Martinelli winery, one of the iconic families and longtime growers in Sonoma, has turned out another impressive group of wines. 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.