Genovese immigrant Louis Martini established his first business in the Napa Valley 1922, right in the middle of Prohibition (in force in the US from 1919 until 1933). Initially he was limited to making "sacramental and medicinal" wines, but with the end of Prohibition, Martini became one the first winemakers in California to produce vintage varietal table wines in quantity, and at reasonable prices. The first varietal Merlot made in the US was bottled under the label of Louis M Martini, in 1978. Today, their range focuses around Cabernet Sauvignon, sourced from prime vineyards in Napa and Sonoma, and includes a Meritage (Bordeaux-styled) blend. With their hallmark of impeccable balance and careful winemaking, older Louis Martini Cabernets never cease to amaze.