2016 Dominus, Napanook, Napa Valley 6x75cl

Dominus: One of the Napa Valley’s Superstars

Dominus has risen in recent years to rival the very best that Napa has to offer. A beautifully made Cabernet Sauvignon, impeccably balanced and delicious, it is one of California’s most complete wines. The Grand Vin is stunning, and the excellent value second wine, Napanook, is also worth seeking out for those looking for something to drink a bit younger.

The Petrus Connection

Dominus is a wine that combines the best of two worlds, old and new. It has the elegance and finesse of Bordeaux, and the power and richness of Napa Valley. The project of Christian Moueix of Petrus fame, it was begun in 1983 by Christian Moueix, after he fell in love with the Napanook vineyard, a historic site in Yountville that dates back to 1836.

The potential of this land was crystal clear, and so Moueix decided to buy it and create his own estate. It has gone from strength to strength and is now among the elite wines of Napa. New releases are eagerly awaited and often massively oversubscribed.

Dominus: Old World Style Meets New World Flair

Harking back to Moueix’s roots in Bordeaux, Dominus is a Cabernet Sauvignon-dominated (around 90%) with a touch of Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and sometimes Merlot making up the Bordeaux-style blend. French oak barrels are used, with about 40% being new depending on the vintage. It comes from an excellent terroir, which has gravelly loam soils, a cool microclimate, and old vines that are dry-farmed.

The result of these exceptional raw materials and peerless winemaking means a special Napa Cabernet Sauvignon. Dominus elegantly combines the openness and generosity that are normally associated with Napa with pure and complex fruit. It has a surprisingly firm structure, dazzling acidity for balance, silky tannins, and a long, sophisticated finish. It really does represent the best of old and new worlds in perfect harmony.