VOLUME 12, ISSUE 34
December 30, 2022
ARTICLES IN THIS ISSUE:
A Commonplace Bucket of Pinot Noir: Quotes, Ephemera, and Thoughts The Prince Retires (this time for good)

Search This Site:

Vineyard: Martaella

VarietiesPinot Noir

Articles mentioning wines produced from this vineyard

Wineries sourcing from this vineyard

Reviewed wines produced from this vineyard

2017 Gary Farrell Martaella Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

13.2% alc., $65. Released May 2020. Exclusive Wine Club Release. · Moderate garnet color in the glass. Aromas of earth-bound cherry, blueberry, purple grape, dried herbs and bark. Lighter weighted and elegant with an expressive core of dark red cherry fruit that enlightens the mid palate and carries through to a regal, long finish. A very open and giving wine with a silky mouthfeel, well-integrated oak and a lip-smacking finish. Score: 92. Reviewed June 14, 2020 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2016 Benovia Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.1% alc., pH 3.59, TA 0.62, 1,087 cases, $42. Released April 2018. Sourced from Martaella Estate, Cohn Estate, Tilton Hill Estate, and Zio Tony Ranch vineyards. A blend of Calera, Swan, Pommard, Mt. Eden, Chalone, and Dijon 777 and 943 clones. 8-day cold soak, 100% de-stemmed into open-top fermenters for native yeast fermentation over 2 weeks. . Aged 16 months in French oak barrels, 37% new. · Dark garnet color in the glass. Engaging aromas of fresh blueberry, pomegranate and blackberry with a hint of toasty oak. Plush on the palate in a well-endowed style featuring blue and black berry fruits. Remarkable intensity in the mouth and on the finish. Sumptuous oak acts in harmony. Very welcoming now. An exceptionally good AVA wine following in the footsteps of the equally fine 2015 version. The wine does not have the concentration, intensity and finish of the other 2016 Benovia Pinot Noirs, but it can stand on its own as a special wine that will find widespread appeal. Score: 91. Reviewed June 29, 2018 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2016 Benovia Martaella Estate Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.5% alc., $60. 42 acres of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay located in the Laguna de Santa Rosa. Combined volcanic and sedimentary soils (Huichica loam). 14 different clones planted. · Dark garnet color in the glass. The nose opens beautifully over time in the glass, revealing a perfume of black raspberry, blackberry, spice and wine cave. Attacking black cherry and black raspberry fruits with a spice accent in a mid weight style framed by a whisper of oak. A gentle, comforting wine that is creamy on the palate, with enjoyable length in the mouth and on the finish. The aromatics became really seductive when the wine was tasted a day later from a previously opened and re-corked bottle. Score: 93-94. Reviewed June 29, 2018 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2016 Benovia Bella Una Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.2% alc., $80. A winemaker selection of barrels that are the best expression of the vintage. · Aromas of interest evolve over time including boysenberry, blackberry and sweet oak. Mid weight plus in style with a core of well-ripened purple and black berry fruits. Well-structured for aging with a remarkably long finish filled with boysenberry fruit. The wine is reclusive upon opening but surfaces over time in the glass and is much more expressive when tasted the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle. The potential is obvious, but this special wine needs coaxing through decanting, or preferably, a few years in the cellar. The most backward wine in the lineup. Score: 93-94. Reviewed June 29, 2018 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2015 Benovia Martaella Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.5% alc., 300 cases, $60. This vineyard surrounds the winery in Santa Rosa in an area known as the Laguna de Santa Rosa. The 58- acre property has 42 acres of Pinot Noir (nine clones) and Chardonnay (four clones) planted in Goldridge soils. · Moderately dark garnet color in the glass. More forward drinking, with lifted aromas of black cherry, black raspberry, cola, spice and wilted rose. Delicious core of black fruits framed by discreet tannins. Very polished and fresh in character, with an extremely long and fruited finish. More modest in concentration than the La Pommeraie and Tilton Hill, but seduces with its vibrancy and openness. Score: 94. Reviewed June 4, 2017 WINERY »

2015 Gary Farrell Martaella Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.1% alc., pH 3.35, TA 0.68, 342 cases, $65. 42-acre high-density plantings including 9 different clones and heirloom selections. 85% of fruit de-stemmed, 15% added as whole cluster. 6-day cold soak, 10-15 day extended maceration post fermentation. Aged 16 months on primary lees in French oak barrels, 40% new. · Moderately dark garnet color in the glass. Enticing and giving aromas of cherry, blueberry and spice engage the senses. The dreamy, satiny mouthfeel immediately grabs your attention. A full-bodied stream of black cherry and blueberry sap retains a pleasing succulence due to underlying bright acidity. This special wine aims to please from the get-go. Still stellar when tasted from a previously opened bottle the following day. Score: 95. Reviewed July 21, 2018 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2014 Benovia Martaella Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.5% alc.. This is an estate vineyard that surrounds the winery. · Moderately dark reddish purple color in the glass. The nose opens reluctantly in the glass over time, offering scents of dark fruits, woodland and underbrush. Purple and black fruits are featured in this mid weight plus styled wine with structured tannins. Appealing refinement and polish with a smooth texture and a fruit-driven finish. Unchanged the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle. Score: 91-92. Reviewed June 5, 2015 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2014 E16 E16 Selection Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.4% alc., pH 3.68, TA 0.61, 335 cases, $40. Sourced from Hawks Roost Ranch (Mariafeld clone) and Martaella Vineyard (Dijon clones), and a small contribution from properties in Anderson Valley, Bennett Valley and the Santa Lucia Highlands. Aged 11 months in French oak barrels, 20% new. · Moderately dark reddish purple color in the glass. Savory aromas of underbrush and flora compliment the aromas of cherry and strawberry. Both savory and fruity on the palate, with flavors of black cherry, pomegranate, pine needle, and woodland herbs. Shy initially, picking up interest over time in the glass. Finishes on a sweet cherry high note. Score: 91. Reviewed September 7, 2016 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2014 E16 Trenton 1880 Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.2% alc., pH 3.52, TA 0.61, 225 cases, $50. Aged 11 months in French oak barrels, 40% new. Sourced from Martaella Vineyard. Dijon and 828 clones. · Nicely scented, with aromas of black cherry, boysenberry jam and spice cabinet. Delightful flavors of black cherry, blueberry, black raspberry, black tea and spice. Toasty oak is complimentary in the background, the tannins are satiny, and the intensely fruity finish satisfies. Score: 92. Reviewed September 7, 2016 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2014 Benovia Martaella Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.3% alc., pH 3.59, TA 0.57, 440 cases, $60. Released September 2016. Benovia’s largest estate vineyard with densely planted Pinot Noir vines. Heirloom and Dijon clones. 25% whole cluster. 8-day cold soak, indigenous yeast fermentation lasting nearly 2 weeks, aged in French oak barrels, 36% new. · Moderately dark reddish purple color in the glass. Initially, the aromas of black fruits and toasty oak are subdued, arriving with more purpose over time in the glass. Somewhat unevolved, but enticing, with a compelling core of oak-kissed blueberry-pomegranate and blackberry fruits backed by firm tannins. When tasted the following day from a previously opened and recorked bottle, the wine was more aromatic with more fruit expression and personality. Expect this one to evolve nicely over the next few years. Score: 93. Reviewed October 19, 2016 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2014 Benovia Bella Luna Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.2% alc., $80. Release spring 2017. A blend of Benovia estate vineyards fruit. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. Quite approachable, with effusive aromas of black cherry, cardamom and peppery spices and a hint of oak. A bit exotically flavored, offering blueberry and black cherry fruit, spice and even a floral note. Inviting harmony, modest tannins, and a sweet cherry finish that is uplifting. By the time it is released, it should be orgasmic. Score: 92-93. Reviewed October 19, 2016 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2012 Benovia Russian River Valley Chardonnay

13.5% alc., 1,200 cases, $36. Primarily Wente clone from the estate Martaella Vineyard. 70% malolactic fermentation. Aged 16 months sur lie in <30% new French oak barrels. · Light golden straw color in the glass. Aromas of citrus and almond lead to a full-flavored wine featuring flavors of pear, lemon, and apricot with complimentary oak seasoning. Refreshing, with bright acidity and lift. Score: 89. Reviewed December 10, 2014 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2012 Benovia Martaella Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.5% alc., 425 cases, $56. The first single vineyard Pinot Noir from this estate vineyard named in honor of the mothers of owners Joe Anderson and Mary Dewane. A blend of Calera, Pommard, Mt. Eden and Swan selections. 30% whole cluster fermentation. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. The nose opens slowly to reveal appealing aromas of black cherry, dark raspberry preserves, exotic spices, sous-bois, and floral goodness. The flavors of purple berries and black cherry are bright and juicy, accented with spice and cola. Softly textured and balanced with modest tannins and a bright, cherry-driven finish. Perfect interplay of tannin and acidity. The long finish is particularly impressive. Still superb two days later from a previously opened and re-corked bottle. Score: 93. Reviewed December 10, 2014 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2011 Benovia Russian River Valley Chardonnay

14.1% alc., pH 3.51, TA 0.68, 750 cases, $34. Released March 2013. Sourced primarily from Martaella Estate Vineayrd. Old Wente, Dijon and suitcase selection. Fermented in barrel with indigenous yeast and aged for 14 months in 35% new French oak barrels. · Light straw color in the glass. Bright aromas of lemon curd, peach and oak vanillin. Crisp and refreshing, featuring flavors of lemon, grapefruit, and hazelnuts. Lively acidity and a very dry, lemon drop finish. Good. Reviewed June 23, 2013 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2011 Benovia Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.1% alc., pH 3.61, TA 0.63, 1,600 cases, $38. Released March 2013. 60% estate Martaella Vineyard with the remainder from Martinelli, Lingenfelder, Dutton and Petersen vineyards. A blend of Calera, Swan and Mt. Eden selections, Pommard, and Dijon “828” and 943. 10% whole cluster. Indigenous yeast fermentation. Aged 16 months in 40% new French oak barrels. · Moderately light reddish-purple color in the glass. Nicely perfumed with fresh cherries and roseate notes. Flavors of Bing cherries, cola and exotic spice. Drinks bigger than the color would indicate. A solid, go-to, daily drinker. Good. Reviewed June 23, 2013 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2011 Benovia Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.1% alc., 1,600 cases, $38. 60% Martaella Vineyard blended with grapes from Martinelli, Lingenfelder, Dutton and Petersen vineyards. Multiple heirloom and Dijon clones. Aged 16 months in 40% new French oak barrels. · Delicate but pleasing aromas of red cherry, baking spice and rose petal lead to lighter weight flavors of cherry, spice, cola and tarry oak. Score: 86. Reviewed January 20, 2014 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2010 Benovia Bella Una Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

Primarily Pommard clone from Martaella Estate Vineyard. More whole cluster. · Darker in color. Very aromatic, even stunning in intensity of dark fruits. Smooth and sexy on the palate with a well-mannered load of dark berry and plum fruit flavors, backed by restrained fine-grain tannins. An exceptional offering. Very good (+). Reviewed July 22, 2012 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2009 george Vintage VII Martaella Vineyard and King Family Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.1% alc., 185 cases, $700 a case. Pommard clone. · Moderately deep reddish-purple color. Highly perfumed with an array of fresh berries, fresh and dried rose petals and spice. Flavors of wild berry soup that are crisp, juicy and viscous, coating every nook and cranny in the mouth. Supple tannins enrobe the vibrant fruit which unfurls in waves on the finish. A knockout. Reviewed March 2, 2011 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2008 george Vintage VI Martaella Vineyard 50% King Family Vineyard 50% Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.9% alc., 1,555 bottles. · Dark garnet color in the glass. Aromas of very ripe purple and black fruits are echoed in the flavors of this mid weight plus styled wine. Sappy and extracted, even hedonistic. Unusual richness for a george Pinot Noir. Mild oak input, proportional tannins, and a hint of alcoholic warmth on the finish. Drink now to 2022. Score: 89. Reviewed September 24, 2017 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2008 george Martaella Vineyard and King Family Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

14.9% alc., 130 cases, $50. A 50/50 blend of the two vineyards that are adjacent properties on Hartman Road. Because of lack of frost protection, over half of the crop was lost from these two vineyards in 2008 so the grapes were fermented together. Pommard clone. · On the fruity nose there are bright oak-infused aromas of black cherries and berries. Moderately rich core of ripe berries with a savory overtone. Still closed, opening gradually in the glass. Supple ripe tannins, tasty supporting oak and admirable delicacy. A solid wine which will get showier with time. Decent (+). Reviewed December 16, 2009 WINERY » ARTICLE »

2007 george Martaella Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir

13.9% alc., 85 cases, $50. All Pommard clone. Formerly named the Benovia Vineyard on Hartmann Lane off Piner Ranch Road. · The biggest daddy in the lineup offering luscious and creamy dark stone fruit with well-spiced black cherry aromas. A showoff that will appeal to hedonists. Reviewed November 2, 2008 WINERY » ARTICLE »

© 2003-2023 Rusty Gaffney MD | Contact the Prince: Prince@PrinceOfPinot.com | Admin Login