The 2012 vintage releases from cabernet-focused Louis Martini are here. (For 2011 vintage reviews, click here.) Let’s see what this vintage has in store for us!

2012 Louis M. Martini Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley – Dense and raisiny on the nose, almost pruny at times. The body offers dried herbs atop a plum, raisin, and dark chocolate core. Somewhat bittersweet and drinking quite tight at the moment, with a lengthy finish that kicks up the sweetness around the edges. Not bad, but a bit workmanlike. B / $25

2012 Louis M. Martini Cabernet Sauvignon Alexander Valley Sonoma County – Cohesive and well-structured, this wine offers a better balance than the Napa bottling, with plenty of fruit but less jamminess. Chocolate notes are easy to enjoy, but the kick of licorice gives it some nuance. The finish is drying but far short of astringent. All in all, it’s a solid and easily drinkable effort. A- / $19

louismartini.com

2012 Louis M. Martini Cabernet Sauvignon Alexander Valley Sonoma County

$19

9

Rating

9.0/10

Related Stories:

Review: 2006 Louis M. Martini Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley Review: Cabernets of Louis M. Martini, 2014 Releases Review: Louis M. Martini Cabernet Sauvignons – 2016 Monte Rosso and 2017 Napa Valley Review: 2015 Louis M. Martini Cabernet Sauvignon Sonoma Valley