2010 Martin Estate, Cabernet Sauvignon, Rutherford, Napa Valley.
This has to be one of the best new wines of the year, this jaw-dropping Cabernet from Aaron Pott and Martin Estate in Rutherford is a profound effort and easily is in the big leagues, this wine is right up there with the cult legends, though name dropping here seems cliche, just know this is the real deal. The 2010 Martin Estate, Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley is intensely dark, deep and dense, but still full of vibrancy, life and grace, this is a shockingly great Cabernet from a talented winemaker that has without question hit the big time. The nose brings acacia, wild flowers, creme de cassis, Herbs de Provence, subtle smoke, pencil lead and vanilla scented wood, then there is the packed palate of vivid flavors including blackberry, black currants, plum and blueberry fruits, mineral, sage and cinnamon spiciness, plus hints of espresso bean, tobacco leaf, bitter coco and licorice root. Everything folds together perfectly and firm tannins and lifting acidity hold the rich and lavish texture in check, this is fantastic and dynamic Cabernet Sauvignon that deserves high praise and attention. Be sure to make note of this estate and this wine, this is a new project you want to be on the ground floor with, and one of the most exciting new Napa wines I can remember, this wine has it all, class, power, life and complexity, don’t miss out.
($75 Est.) 96+ Points, grapelive
