- About This Wine
- Ratings & Reviews
- Tasting Notes
About This Wine
Ratings & Reviews
Tasting Notes
ABOUT THIS WINE
REVIEWS
WINEMAKER NOTES
The 2021 Louis M. Martini Gryphon Cabernet Sauvignon is a triumph of Napa Valley winemaking, a wine that captures the essence of its storied terroir with precision and grace. Sourced from some of the most coveted vineyards in the region, particularly those in the southern Napa Valley, this Cabernet emphasizes freshness and vibrancy, a hallmark of the area’s cooler microclimates. The fruit was hand-harvested with meticulous care, ensuring only the finest clusters made their way into small fermenters at the winery. This hands-on approach, combined with a 19-month élevage in barrel—55% of which were new French oak—has resulted in a wine of remarkable depth, complexity, and polish.
The 2021 growing season was nothing short of ideal, a return to form for Napa Valley after a series of challenging years. Winter rains replenished the soil, providing a strong foundation for the vines, while the rest of the season unfolded with dry, mild conditions. This allowed the grapes to ripen slowly and evenly, hanging on the vine longer than usual to develop intense flavor concentration. The early harvest yielded low quantities of small, potent berries, a winemaker’s dream, ensuring the wine’s structure and richness. The result is a Cabernet that speaks eloquently of its vintage, offering a harmonious balance of power and elegance.
A blend of 91% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Cabernet Franc, 3% Merlot, and 2% Malbec, the Gryphon is a masterclass in blending. The Cabernet Sauvignon forms the backbone, delivering layers of blackcurrant, dark cherry, and plum, while the Cabernet Franc adds a touch of floral nuance and red fruit vibrancy. The Merlot contributes plushness and roundness to the mid-palate, and the Malbec lends a hint of spice and depth. Together, they create a wine that is both opulent and refined, with a velvety texture and a finish that lingers with notes of mocha, graphite, and a whisper of vanilla.
For those seeking a Cabernet that embodies the best of Napa Valley, the 2021 Louis M. Martini Gryphon is a compelling choice. It is a wine that will delight upon release but also has the structure and balance to age gracefully for years to come. Whether enjoyed now or cellared, it is a testament to the artistry and heritage of Louis M. Martini, a name synonymous with excellence in Napa Valley winemaking.
Alcohol: 14.8%
The 2021 growing season was nothing short of ideal, a return to form for Napa Valley after a series of challenging years. Winter rains replenished the soil, providing a strong foundation for the vines, while the rest of the season unfolded with dry, mild conditions. This allowed the grapes to ripen slowly and evenly, hanging on the vine longer than usual to develop intense flavor concentration. The early harvest yielded low quantities of small, potent berries, a winemaker’s dream, ensuring the wine’s structure and richness. The result is a Cabernet that speaks eloquently of its vintage, offering a harmonious balance of power and elegance.
A blend of 91% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Cabernet Franc, 3% Merlot, and 2% Malbec, the Gryphon is a masterclass in blending. The Cabernet Sauvignon forms the backbone, delivering layers of blackcurrant, dark cherry, and plum, while the Cabernet Franc adds a touch of floral nuance and red fruit vibrancy. The Merlot contributes plushness and roundness to the mid-palate, and the Malbec lends a hint of spice and depth. Together, they create a wine that is both opulent and refined, with a velvety texture and a finish that lingers with notes of mocha, graphite, and a whisper of vanilla.
For those seeking a Cabernet that embodies the best of Napa Valley, the 2021 Louis M. Martini Gryphon is a compelling choice. It is a wine that will delight upon release but also has the structure and balance to age gracefully for years to come. Whether enjoyed now or cellared, it is a testament to the artistry and heritage of Louis M. Martini, a name synonymous with excellence in Napa Valley winemaking.
Alcohol: 14.8%
92 POINTS - "The Cabernet Sauvignon The Gryphon is a new wine from Louis M. Martini. Intended as more of an entry-level ...." - Vinous
The Gryphon was sourced from some of the most coveted vineyards in the Napa Valley, with a focus on the southern region to emphasize freshness and vibrancy. The fruit was hand-harvested and made in small fermenters at our winery. The wine underwent 19-month élevage in barrel (55% new French oak).