From ancient vines aged between 115 and 120 years, Martinelli produced a 2012 Zinfandel Jackass Hill Vineyard that also achieved 17.1% natural alcohol. One of the most profound Zinfandels made in California, it boasts notes of figs, prunes, spice box, smoked meats, barbecue spices, blackcurrants and black cherries. This full-bodied, unctuously textured Zinfandel is totally dry, but the high alcohol gives it an impression of sweetness because of the elevated glycerin levels. This comes from a hillside slope that can hit 65 degrees, hence the local farmers referred to one of the Martinelli pioneers as a “jackass.” It is remarkable that anyone would ever plant a vineyard on such an incline. Drink the Jackass Hill over the next 15-20 years.