2019

Winemaker Notes Our concept of small-lot winemaking dates back to 1948 when Louis M. Martini began ranking his most exceptional Cabernet lots to use for a special selection blend. We honor this attention to detail with every vintage we make, fermenting Lot No. 1 in small open-top tanks, which allow for a high level of precision when extracting color and flavor. All lots were alternately punched down and pumped over up to four times daily to build the desired foundation for the wine’s mouthfeel. Our barrel program for Lot No. 1 is also unique, with the primary component being 36-month air dried French oak. This longer drying time encourages rich tannin structure throughout the duration of the wine’s 19 months in barrel (83% new). Notes of crème de cassis, black cherry, green olive and dried fennel root extend from the nose through to the supple, bold palate. The unctuous finish uncovers layers of oak that you would expect from a classic Napa Cabernet. Varietal: 100% Cabernet Sauvignon "Deep and concentrated blueberries, dark chocolate and espresso flavors fill out this powerful but polished wine whose firm but gentle tannins will carry it to a long life. It's the top-of-the-line Cabernet from the now Cabernet-centric 90-year-old winery. Best from 2027–2040." - 96 points, Wine Enthusiast, September 2023

The 2019 Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is a full-bodied wine grown along the meandering Russian River. Pronounced aromas of brambleberry, crushed dried herbs and violet rise from the glass. The palate delivers notes of graham cracker pie crust and black plum with undercurrents of dried sage and leather. This wine lands firmly on the rustic side of Cabernet with dusty tannins and a long earthy finish. Grapes were picked early in the morning to preserve maximum flavor enroute to the winery. All lots were aged and evaluated separately, allowing us to craft a harmonious wine before marrying the final blend in barrel to finish aging. In total, the wine spent 17 months in a combination of French and American oak (29% new). Varietal: 95% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Petite Sirah