2005 Martinelli Syrah Chico's Hill
Estimated value
Buying options
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
Inky ruby. Smoky nose displays dark berry compote, licorice and aromatic floral oils. Round and sweet, with palate-staining blackberry and cassis flavors, no obvious tannins and terrific mineral lift. This is all about fruit today and finishes with excellent clarity and lingering sweetness. I'd give this a few years to gain complexity.
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.