1999 Martinelli Zinfandel Jackass Hill Vineyard

The 1999 Zinfandel Jackass Hill Vineyard (16.5% alcohol) reveals notes of lavender, jammy black raspberries and blackberries, smoky oak, soy, jus de viande, and a touch of volatile acidity, all of which explode in the nose and on the palate. Flamboyant, with excellent structure, immense body, and flavors of blackberries and smoky cherries that ooze across the palate, this is another prodigious wine that should be consumed over the next decade, although its power and force of character will keep it alive for 2-3 decades. Tel. (707) 525-0570

Dark ruby-red. Burnished aromas of cassis, exotic fruits and oak spices. Round and velvety; initially seemed more alcoholic and less lively than the Giuseppe & Luisa bottling, but this very backward wine revealed more flavor interest and fresh fruit as it opened in the glass. Thick but uncompromisingly dry, and a bit youthfully aggressive on the finish. Decant this chewy zinfandel if you plan to drink it now. May ultimately merit a higher score.