2015 Martinelli Syrah Hop Barn Hill
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Tasting notes
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Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
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The 2015 Syrah Hop Barn Hill is very deep purple-black in color with a super intense nose of crushed black currants, black cherry preserves, plum pudding and fruitcake with touches of cigar box, star anise and espresso plus a waft of garrigue. Very big, very full-bodied and wonderfully opulent in the mouth, it offers tons of black fruit preserves and savory layers supported by firm, chewy tannins and just enough acidity, finishing long and mocha-laced. Only 36 cases were made.
Once again, the Syrah Hop Barn Hill is one of the most complete Syrahs in this range. Plump and forward, with terrific underlying structure, the Hop Barn Hill is all class. The tannins need time to settle, but there is certainly plenty to look forward to. Today, it is the wine's purity of fruit and exceptional balance that stand out most.
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.