Out of the Linne Calodo Universe, The Martian is an exploration of Cabernet Sauvignon by winemaker Matt Trevisan, best known for his Grenache, Syrah and Zinfandel forward blends.  The Cabernet, Merlot and Petit Verdot all hail from a Zola Vineyards, located between the Linne Calodo Estate and the Stonethrower Ranch.  Planted in the mid-90s, this cool west side pocket produces fruit that has both the red fruit of Paso and the classic more animal aromatics of a Bordeaux wine.

2018

62% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot, 18% Petit Verdot

For a winemaker who has focused over 20 years of winemaking on Syrah, Grenache and Zinfandel, The Martian is an opportunity to play with a different set of ingredients; Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot and Merlot.  The resulting wine is perfectly balanced between rich dark red fruits, creme brûlée and cigar box.  On the pallet firm but rounded tannins interplay with uplifting acidity for a smooth lush mouthfeel.  The finish is seemingly endless, black currants steamed in french oak. Drink now through 2038, recommended one hour decant if drunk before 2026.

 

2017 

77% Cabernet Sauvignon, 14% Merlot, 9% Petit Verdot

Made from Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petit Verdot, three varietals not seen anywhere else in the Linne Calodo cannon, The Martian is simultaneously distinct and yet familiar. It offers the same elegance and finesse found in all Linne Calodo blends, with a medium body that is perfectly balanced between acidity and tannin to give a smooth and enveloping mouthfeel. Mulberry and red currant are interlaced with the warm aromas of a rack of lamb sizzling in the oven and wet granite after the rain.  Dark red winter pomegranate gushes across the tongue on first sip, with black truffle and notes of caramel dancing through the long and lingering finish.   This back and forth between fruit and earth creates a wine that draws you in, every sip discovering another flavor. The Martian has many many years ahead of it, if you can resist the urge to devour it now. Over time the wine will deepen, the French oak it aged in integrating and further enhancing the blend. However consumed now it already rewards the drinker with incredible complexity and balance. Enjoy now through 2037.

 

2016

70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 22% Merlot, 8% Petite Verdot

The 2016 The Martian is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Petite Verdot, and Merlot.  If you’ve been following Linne Calodo for any amount of time, you know that those 3 grapes are out of our world and hence the name. What sold us on the idea?  Well the Sorso vineyard is located halfway between the LC estate and the Trevi Ranch properties located in the heart of the Willow Creek District. It is a cooler site, at around 1200ft elevation, with west and south-facing exposures.

The style is distinctly Linne Calodo; bright acidity, medium bodied, a long lingering finish, begging for a rich meal to pair with or to enjoy with a few friends.  It embodies the Linne Calodo spirit, it is an experiment in doing something different, trying, learning and perfecting something new.  Enjoy a bottle now, or buy a case an drink one a year for the next 12 years to watch it develop.

2015

100% Cabernet Sauvignon

The nose draws you in with rosemary and wild fennel drifting among black cherry, boysenberry and pomegranate. A hint of oak logs roasting on the fire transforms into cardamom-roasted figs and cedar on the palate. Rich with a depth of flavor and spice, The Martian still has buoyancy on the palate with salivating spice notes that massage the tannins for an unbelievably smooth mouthfeel. The long and lingering finish peaks with hints of black pepper, leaving you anxious for your next sip.