2021 Martinelli Lolita Ranch Chardonnay, Russian River Valley

Martinelli 2021 Lolita Ranch Chardonnay, Russian River Valley

Producer Background
Martinelli Winery is a storied, family‑run estate in Sonoma County with a long heritage of viticulture. Founded by Giuseppe Martinelli and his wife in the late 19th century, the family has maintained and expanded vineyard holdings over generations. The Lolita Ranch is part of the Martinelli estate vineyards—it was acquired returning to the family in 1999. The vineyard is farmed under certified sustainable practices, emphasizing soil health, vine balance, and environmentally conscious management.

Grape, Vineyard & Terroir
This wine is 100% Chardonnay, grown on the Lolita Ranch site in the Russian River Valley AVA. The vineyard was planted around 2001, and the vines rest on Josephine soils with abundant Franciscan influence. Soils are well‑drained and relatively thin, non‑vigorous, contributing to concentration of flavor. Clone selections include Wente and “Clone 4.”

Winemaking & Style
Native yeast fermentation is used for this Chardonnay. The wine is fermented in neutral French oak, with full malolactic fermentation, and aged on its lees with regular stirring (batonnage). Roughly half of the aging is done in new French oak, over a period of about 10 months. These methods combine to preserve freshness while adding texture and richness.

Tasting Notes
The 2021 Lolita Ranch Chardonnay shows a pale straw color with a hint of warmth. The nose reveals honeysuckle, lemon curd, fresh apple, and touches of flint or mineral smoke. On the palate, it balances creamy richness with bright acidity. Flavors include citrus (lemon, lime), stone fruit, some vanilla barrel spice, and a delicate chalky texture that lingers in the finish. While lush, it retains tension and a fine structural backbone.

Food Pairing Suggestions
This wine pairs nicely with:

• Rich seafood (e.g. grilled scallops, shellfish in butter sauce)

• Roast chicken, especially with herbs like thyme or rosemary

• Cream‑based dishes (pasta Alfredo, risotto with mushrooms)

• Soft or semi‑firm cheeses (such as Brie, young Gouda, triple‑creme cheeses)

• Dishes with a citrus or buttery sauce to match the wine’s creaminess and acidity

Serving & Cellaring Potential
Serve around 50‑54°F (10‑12°C) to show both its fresh and rich sides. While enjoyable now, this wine has the structure to age gracefully over the next 5‑10 years, during which the secondary characteristics (oak, mineral, tertiary fruit) should become more pronounced.