Multiple Vineyards

Vigneto Di Evo Zinfandel is a barrel-blend from select Martinelli single vineyard zinfandel sites: Jackass, Vellutini, Lolita and Giuseppe & Luisa. This bottling is named for Evo Martinelli, who was raised on Martinelli Road. He was Lee Sr.’s first cousin, the son of Fred Martinelli. Evo gave Lee Sr. one of his first jobs out of the vineyard and instilled the importance of going to college in him as a young man.

When we look back at the 2023 growing season there are two words that perfectly describe the vintage – late and big. After an exceptionally wet and cool winter, bud break happened over a month later than average. Our first day of picking was the day after the harvest completed the previous year. Fruit set was excellent and the temps during the summer were moderate to cool, with very few days in the triple digits. What a contrast from 2022! Mild temperatures along with abundantly available water allowed the clusters to develop slowly and evenly.

The nose is vibrant, with sweet notes of raspberry, dark cherry, and molasses. On the palate, it’s immediately mouthwatering, revealing flavors of red currant and pomegranate. Balanced tannins support lively acidity, complemented by subtle rhubarb undertones. The wine culminates in a smooth, lingering finish of vanilla cream.