2008 Martinelli "Jackass Vineyard" Russian River Valley Zinfandel

“The 2008 Zinfandel Jackass Vineyard has one of those “wow” aromatic profiles. Although not saturated in color (it is dark plum/garnet), it boasts a huge nose of incense, camphor, smoked meats, herbs, forest floor and jammy strawberries as well as cherries. It is a full-bodied, dry, textured, classic, old style, “packed and stacked” Zinfandel that, despite its lofty alcohol (16.6%), is not the least bit hot. This is stunning stuff from one of the great historic sites of California. Drink it over the next 10-15+ years. (RP)” (02/2011)

“Opaque violet. Vibrant, highly aromatic nose displays spicy red berries and potpourri complicated by cola and smoky spice notes. Deeply concentrated raspberry and cherry flavors show a liqueur-like sweetness and are brightened by emphatic notes of candied flowers and black pepper. The spicy note lingers on the lively, smoky, long finish, which repeats the red fruit and floral notes. I really like this wine's vivacity and clarity, especially given its power. (ST)” (05/2010)