Tech Notes
Wine Details
James Suckling
Jeb Dunnuck
Vinous
By Dominus Estate
Dominus Napa Valley Red Wine
Source
Napanook Vineyard, Yountville, CA
Background and Terroir
The Napanook vineyard is nestled in a natural amphitheater at the foothills of the Mayacamas Mountains on the west side of the Napa Valley. Fed by winter rains, its underground springs flow through ancient riverbeds, providing a natural water supply to its grapevines and allowing them to develop deep roots. Over centuries, this fertile benchland's microclimate has provided ideal conditions for crops and grape growing. It was here, in 1838, that George Yount planted some of the very first vines in Napa Valley. The Napanook vineyard encompasses 134 acres, 102 of which are presently planted to Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot. Its gravelly clay loam soils gently slope 3-10%, ensuring natural drainage.
Vintage
The 2023 growing season was defined by exceptional rainfall, cool spring temperatures, and a notably delayed harvest. Total rainfall from July 2022 through June 2023 reached 51 inches, making it the fourth wettest year since 1998 and significantly above the historical average of 31 inches. Cold temperatures in March delayed budbreak by approximately two weeks. June continued the cool trend, recording an average temperature of 62 degrees F, the coldest since 1998, compared to the typical 66 degrees F. Despite a warm summer and early fall, vine development remained behind schedule. Veraison occurred roughly two weeks later than average. However, thanks to sustained warm conditions, ripening progressed evenly.
Tasting Notes
A vivid expression of its unique site, Dominus is a profound and powerful wine, exemplifying purity. With articulated fruit and polished tannins, the wine has elegance, complexity, great length, and improves with age.
[Information provided by Dominus Estate]
[Information is not vintage specific]
Region:
North Coast
Vintage:
2023
Grape:
Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot
Country:
United States
Unit Size:
750.00 ML
Alcohol Percentage:
15.00
Appellation:
Napa Valley
Wine:Â Dominus Napa Valley 2023
Score/Rating: 99
Review Date: 02/27/2026
Reviewed By:Â James Suckling
Tasting Notes:Â Black currant, pencil shaving, subtle sandalwood, wet earth, forest floor and violet aromas follow through to a medium- to full-bodied palate with ultra-fine tannins that integrate perfectly at the end. A polished and caressing texture that goes on for minutes. The balance and drinkability of this Dominus is terrific, and it will age beautifully. A blend of 87% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Cabernet Franc and 4% Petit Verdot. [...]. Very drinkable now, but will age beautifully.
Wine: 2023 Dominus
Score/Rating: 97
Suggested Drinking Window: 2025 - 2050
Review Date: 12/22/2025
Reviewed By: Jeb Dunnuck
Tasting Notes: Based on 87% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Cabernet Franc, and 4% Petit Verdot and aged 20 months in 40% new French oak, the 2023 Dominus is absolutely gorgeous, with an incredible level of purity and refinement. Cassis, graphite, crushed stone, melted crayons, and floral nuances all define the aromatics. It's medium to full-bodied, with seamless, refined elegance, ultra-fine tannins, beautiful mid-palate depth, and outstanding length. This more charming, forward, and seductive style of Dominus will offer incredible appeal over the next 20-25 years or more. Drink 2025-2050.
Wine: 2023 Dominus
Score/Rating: 96
Suggested Drinking Window: 2027 - 2043
Review Date: 11/2025
Reviewed By: Antonio Galloni
Tasting Notes: The 2023 Dominus is a very pretty, surprisingly open-knit wine from this estate. Soft contours wrap around a core of pliant red/purplish fruit. Lavender, rose petal and gently spiced overtones caress the mid-palate and finish. I expect the 2023 will drink well with minimal cellaring, something that is rarely the case here.
