Louis Martini Cabernet Sauvignon 2018
(Napa Valley, California) - [JS 93] [VM 92] [DM 92]
Regular price $45.00 Sale price $39.97 Save $5.03
Notes from the Winemaker:
The history of Louis M. Martini Winery reflects the vision and ingenuity of a family committed to making the best Cabernet Sauvignon possible. Long before the establishment of AVAs and just after Prohibition was repealed, Louis M. Martini built his winery and began a legacy that would span multiple generations. His decisions to settle in Napa Valley and purchase the renowned Monte Rosso Vineyard a few years later (1938) were driven by a desire to craft exceptional wines by sourcing the best fruit possible.
The Martini winemakers have always focused on finding ways to push the quality of their wines from the vineyard to the cellar. For example, Louis P. Martini discovered new sites in the Napa Valley ideally suited to grow fine wine grapes. In addition, he was the first to use wind machines in vineyards to prevent frost. In 1977, Louis P. Martini’s son, Mike Martini, took the helm and set an even higher level of winemaking standards. He created Cellar No. 254, an “artist’s studio” winery where the Martini team continues to experiment with limited-production wines.
Michael Eddy took over winemaking at Louis M. Martini in 2015, after spending more than a decade under the mentorship of third generation winemaker Mike Martini. As the fourth winemaker in the Winery’s history, Michael’s style connects the legacy of the family to the art of what’s possible in the Napa Valley.
Our 2019 Louis M. Martini Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon showcases the stellar 2019 vintage of all five Bordeaux varieties. Classic and well-structured, our Cabernet Sauvignon brims with soft and approachable notes of black plum and wisps of fennel on the nose. Layers of dark cherry and cassis are unscored by hints of black licorice and a gravelly earthiness. The oak is well-integrated, imparting notes of sweet aromatics, resin and a bit of torn mint on the long finish. This wine is incredibly enjoyable now and will age for years to come.Ratings & Reviews (for the 2016 vintage)
93 Points - James Suckling:
"A slightly high-toned red with walnut, berry, chocolate and spice on the nose and palate. Medium-to full-bodied with chewy tannins and a rich finish. A little firmer and tighter than in the past, which equates to a more serious red. A touch of petit sirah in this. Drink or hold." (6/2021)
92 Points - Vinous:
"The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon is a racy, juicy wine to drink now and over the next decade. Super-ripe red cherry fruit, mocha, spice, new leather and sweet spice are all kicked up in this tasty, boisterous Cabernet from Martini. (Drink between 2022-2032)" - Antonio Galloni (1/2022)
92 Points - Decanter:
"A Napa Cabernet nose to revel in, all dark, glossy, sweet ripe cassis enrobed in mocha oak. Full and intense, with black fruit that’s ripe yet not overdone, a touch of leafiness that adds an extra dimension of freshness. Fine-grained tannins are tightly woven but not constricting. Serious but with a huge Napa Valley smile. (Drink between 2022-2038)" - Clare Tooley (1/2022)