Louis Martini 'Lot 1' Cabernet Sauvignon 2018 - 750ml

96pts Robert Parker's Wine Advocate

Very deep purple-black, the 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Lot 1 explodes from the glass with vibrant black cherries, mulberries and redcurrant jelly scents followed by a core of crème de cassis, cedar chest and roses plus hints of chocolate box and fragrant earth. Full-bodied, the palate delivers impactful, mouth-coating black fruits with a firm structure of grainy tannins and bold freshness, finishing long with some mineral sparks coming through.

96pts Jeb Dunnuck

Another incredibly ripe, powerful wine, the 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Lot No. 1 sports a dense purple hue to go with a terrific bouquet of spicy oak, smoked earth, currants, and ripe tobacco. A beast of a wine on the palate, it’s full-bodied, has ripe, mouth-coating tannins, serious mid-palate depth, and a great finish. It pushes on the alcohol but stays balanced and pure, with a good sense of freshness. Give it a few years and then drink over the following decade.

94pts Wine Spectator

This has a frankly toasty note overlaying rich cassis, plum and boysenberry compote flavors, while licorice root, loam and roasted mesquite notes fill in on the finish. Not shy in the muscular approach. For fans of the style. Best from 2023 through 2036.

91pts James Suckling

This is a firm and structured red with blackberry, conifer and chocolate character. It’s full-bodied, yet tight and poised. Lots of dark fruit at the end and chewy tannins. 61% mountain fruit and 39% valley-floor. Long finish. Dry at the end. A little hot from the high alcohol. Retro-styled. Try in 2023.

Tasting Notes

On the nose, the 2018 Lot No. 1 vintage showcases enticing aromas of wild blackberries, cocoa and toasted oak supported by notes of brown spice and humidor. The rich, plush palate boasts flavors of shaved chocolate and reduced blackberry compote with hints of cinnamon. The long finish reveals classic oak character and plush tannins.

About the Wine

Lot No.1 is Cabernet Sauvignon at its peak form of expression. Its history dates back over 70 years when Louis M. Martini began a practice that would become a hallmark of his winery. While tasting through Cabernet aging in the cellar, he began selecting exceptional lots, choosing ones that showcased the essence of Cabernet Sauvignon character and designating them to craft his finest wine.