From a vineyard planted in rocky soils, the 2006 Syrah Hop Camp Vineyard (the debut release for this wine) is a backward, tannic, northern Rhone-like Syrah offering hints of charcuterie, cured meats, black fruits, roasted herbs, and leather. This full-bodied, powerful effort requires 2-3 years of cellaring, and should be consumed over the following 10-15. Martinelli’s Zinfandel portfolio continues to grow, with as many as five different offerings now available. The 2006 and 2007 Jackass Hill Vineyard cuvees were not tasted at this visit. However, the other four wines I tasted, all from steep hillside vineyard sites with the newer plantings planted from bud wood of both the Jackass Hill and Jackass vineyards, were brilliant. They are among the fullest-bodied, headiest, most distinctive Zinfandels made in California. Tel. (707) 525-0570; Fax (707) 525-9463