By Dominus Estate
Napanook Napa Valley Red Wine

Wine Details
Source: Napanook Vineyard, Yountville, CA
Blend: Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot
Aging: In 20% new oak

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, 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
With its own distinct personality, Napanook presents a bold and vibrant character. Its exuberant fruit, smooth structure, and medium-bodied texture lend to its immediate appeal. It is pure, sculpted, and seductive. Immediately enjoyable and wonderful with age.
[Information provided by Dominus Estate]
[Information is not vintage specific]

Wine: Dominus Napa Valley Napanook 2023
Score/Rating: 97
Review Date: 03/01/2026
Reviewed By: James Suckling
Tasting Notes: Aromas of blueberries, ash and stones with hints of blackberries, orange peel and chocolate. It’s medium-bodied with medium-round tannins that are polished and velvety but always in check. Cedar and baking spices like nutmeg on the palate. Lovely soft and silky texture with a long finish. Enchanting and delicious. 92% Cabernet [Sauvignon], 4% Cabernet Franc and 4% Petit Verdot. [...]. Drink now or hold.

Wine: 2023 Dominus Napanook
Score/Rating: 94
Suggested Drinking Window: 2027 - 2040
Review Date: 05/07/2026
Reviewed By: Joe Czerwinski
Tasting Notes: Easily rivaling the excellent 2021 - might it be even better? - Dominus's 2023 Napanook originates largely from the middle portion of the vineyard as a blend of 92% Cabernet Sauvignon and 4% each Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Qualitatively and stylistically, it sits nicely between the lighter, crisper Othello and the vin de garde produced from the more gravelly section of the vineyard at the back, closest to the Mayacamas. Cherries and dusty loam are joined by hints of vanilla on the nose, while the medium- to full-bodied palate is lush, with a seductive swell of fruit and tannins that flows seamlessly into a long finish tinged with black olives and black tea, framed by soft tannins.

Wine: Dominus 2023 Napanook
Score/Rating: 93
Suggested Drinking Window: 2027 - 2038
Review Date: 11/2025
Reviewed By: Antonio Galloni
Tasting Notes: The 2023 Napanook is deep, bold and luscious right out of the gate. Black cherry, lavender, dried herbs and graphite fill out its mid-weight frame quite nicely. I expect the 2023 will drink well with minimal cellaring, as it is already quite open and doesn't quite have the tannic palate presence of more important years.

Wine: 2023 Dominus Napanook
Score/Rating: 92
Suggested Drinking Window: 2025 - 2040
Review Date: 12/22/2025
Reviewed By: Jeb Dunnuck
Tasting Notes: Deep purple-hued and the second wine of this reference point domaine, the 2023 Napanook offers classic currants, leafy tobacco, graphite, and underbrush notes in a medium-bodied, very pretty, pure, elegant, and graceful style. Based on 92% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Cabernet Franc, and 4% Petit Verdot and aged 20 months in 20% new French oak, it has ripe and polished tannins, perfectly integrated acidity, and a great finish. This classic, classy Cabernet will keep for 10-15 years. Drink 2025-2040.