August 2005--Wine Recommendations
Virtual Tasting Room —Louis M. Martini
By Thom Elkjer
This vineyard is a favorite of many Napa visitors, with its stately tree-lined entrance and well-known Cabernets. Thom experiences two Martini Cabs, along with several other varietals that show the winery's range.
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Louis M. Martini Pinot Gris Russian River Valley 2003 ($14): the crisp apple and summer clover aromas continue as flavors in your mouth, with some oak barrel accents; you also get plump texture, good body, and some honeyed sweetness in the finish. |
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Louis M. Martini Zinfandel Sonoma Valley “Gnarly Vine” 2000 ($35): the aromas reminded me of the cough syrup I loved as a kid; in your mouth it’s much juicier black-fruited—a balanced, palate-pleasing table wine rather than a knock-out Zin cocktail. |
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Louis M. Martini Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley 2001 ($25): scents of cassis and camphor waft above raspberry and black cherry aromas; in your mouth the mid-weight wine offers nice chunky tannins, a winning texture and balanced finish. Needs a few years (or a few hours of decanting) to unfold its fruit. |
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Louis M. Martini Cabernet Sauvignon Sonoma Valley Monte Rosso Vineyard 2001 ($60): it even smells impressive, combining jammy red fruit with layers of cola, camphor and vanilla; in your mouth the fruit is intense, the tannins coat your teeth, sweet raspberry and black cherry notes flirt with toasty oak, and the finish is balanced yet concentrated. Surprisingly drinkable now, for a wine that will age a long time. |
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