Winemaker Notes

This 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 21 months in barrel (100% French oak, 93% new).

Critical Acclaim

James Suckling - 95pts

A balanced and polished red with plums, blue fruit and hints of vanilla. Full-bodied yet refined and focused. Finesse. Savory and juicy. Umami. Shows wonderful potential. 

Wine Enthusiast - 94pts

This is a powerhouse wine, surprisingly soft and supple on the palate, with firm, integrated tannins and hearty oak. Cedar, pencil shavings and sweet tobacco provide savory complexity on the midpalate, accenting a core of concentrated red currant and plum. The finish is a mix of black pepper and dark chocolate