Louis Martini Cabernet Sauvignon 2019
(Napa Valley, California) 750mL - [JS 93] [WA 92] [WS 92] [DM 91]
Regular price $55.00 Sale price $39.97 Save $15.03
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 Long before the establishment of AVAs and just after Prohibition was repealed, Louis M. Martini built his winery and began a legacy that would span multiple generations.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 silky and harmonious cabernet with currants, light chocolate and spice. Medium to full body, lightly round tannins and a flavorful finish. Real Napa cabernet at a good price. Drink or hold." (2/2019)
92+ Points - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate:
"The 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon is made up of 84% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Petite Sirah, 5% Petit Verdot, 1% Merlot and 1% Malbec, aged in 30% new French and American oak. Deep garnet-purple colored, it gives up bold notions of cassis, black cherries and spice box with hints of cedar and fragrant earth. The palate is medium to full-bodied, firm and grainy with loads of muscular fruit accented by a notable but not overwhelming oaky presence, going to a long, layered finish. 38,000 cases produced." - Lisa Perrotti-Brown (Jan 31, 2019)
92 Points - Wine Spectator
Ripe, but with freshness to help carry off the well-laden core of blackberry, boysenberry and black cherry compote. Reveals a nice backdrop of singed alder and mesquite as well as licorice snap, with good underlying juiciness. Best from 2023 through 2036. 42,000 cases made. - James Molesworth 12/31/22
91 Points - Decanter
Michael Eddy has produced a fine wine here, exhibiting bright red berry fruit, vanilla and sweet oak spice aromas. Medium-bodied with ample freshness, with flavorus of compact red fruit and baking spices layered by supple tannins. A long finish punctuated by chocolate and wild herbs. A great value for the vintage. JC (6/2022)