Of course, the Martinellis made their reputation with their extraordinary Zinfandels, and the newest of the cuvees is the Zinfandel Giuseppe & Luisa. The 2005 is a blockbuster, with deep ruby/purple color and a big, sweet nose of ripe figs, strawberry and cherry jam, mincemeat, and peppery spices. It is full-bodied, heady, opulent, and ideal for drinking over the next 5-7 years, although I suspect it will last a lot longer. The finished alcohol is 16.90%.
Kudos to the Martinelli family, one of the great old winemaking families of Northern California. (They also produce exquisite apples as well.)
Previously recommended: 2004 Chardonnay Charles Ranch (91); 2004 Chardonnay Martinelli Road (94); 2004 Chardonnay Woolsey Road (92); 2004 Chardonnay Zio Tony Ranch (89?); 2004 Pinot Noir Blue Slide Ridge (92); 2004 Pinot Noir Bondi Home Ranch Water Trough Vineyard (89); 2004 Pinot Noir Moonshine Ranch (92); 2004 Pinot Noir Zio Tony Ranch (90); 2004 Zinfandel Giuseppe & Luisa (93); 2004 Jackass Vineyard (93); 2004 Jackass Hill Vineyard (95)
Tel. (707) 525-0570; Fax (707) 525-9463