2008 Martinelli Pinot Noir Moonshine Ranch
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Tasting notes
The 2008 Pinot Noir Moonshine Ranch reveals an evolved garnet/ruby color as well as a bouquet of ripe apple skins, plums, sweet cherries and macerated strawberries. The most alcoholic of these Pinots, it offers hints of sassafras and beet root vegetables in its lusty, heady personality. It will undoubtedly be a “love it or leave it” example of this varietal. Drink it over the next 5-6 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
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
Dark red. Spicy red and dark berry aromas are complemented by baking spices, potpourri and a hint of cola. Deep black raspberry and cherry on the palate, with a strong lashing of Asian spices on the back half. Silky tannins add support on the finish, which delivers superb juicy punch and excellent persistence.
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.