Dominus
Classification
Dominus belongs to the exclusive club of California Cult wines. It shares this elite space with opulent names like Screaming Eagle and Harlan Estate, offering an experience that treads the line between New World innovation and Old World elegance.
Highlights
- Vintages receiving 100-point scores: 1994, 2002, 2013
- Most popular for its Cabernet-dominant blends, noted for structured tannins and well-integrated fruit profiles.
- Highest achievement: Achieving a status of a true "cult wine," often compared to the top echelons of Bordeaux.
Provenance & Masters Behind the Bottle
The driving force behind Dominus is none other than Christian Moueix, also known for his influence in Bordeaux properties like Château Petrus. His expertise manifests in every bottle, channeling a deep-rooted understanding of terroir, balanced by his ability to adopt innovative techniques. Moueix brings a unique dichotomy of tradition and progress to the Californian wine scene.
Vineyard & Craftsmanship
The vineyard, located in Napa Valley's esteemed Yountville AVA, showcases unique soil profiles rich in volcanic and gravelly compositions. The well-considered blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, and Cabernet Franc results in a dynamic tapestry of flavors, from cassis to subtle notes of tobacco. The vineyard operates with an acute focus on sustainability and employs dry farming, contributing to the wine's concentrated character.
Aging & Investment Value
Dominus wines have consistently shown their ability to age gracefully over decades, often peaking 20-25 years post-vintage. Given the perpetual demand and limited annual production, these wines offer an excellent addition to any collector's portfolio with a promise for value appreciation.
