The story of Dominus started in the late 1960’s when Bordeaux winemaker Christian Moueix fell in love with Napa Valley and its wines. He discovered the historic Napanook Vineyard, one of the first vineyards planted in the Napa Valley, and in 1981 and entered into a partnership to develop it.
Becoming its sole owner in 1995, he chose the name “Dominus” or “Lord of the Estate”, to underscore his longstanding commitment to stewardship of the land. From this estate, Moueix produces two wines: the flagship “cult” red Dominus, and Napanook, a lively and youthful blend of Bordeaux varieties that is meant to be consumed more as an “every day” wine.
The estate is situated on the foothills of the Mayacamas range and enjoys a temperate climate. 103 acres are predominantly planted with Cabernet Sauvignon along with Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot on gravelly and clay loam soil. The estate practices sustainability and is at the forefront of preserving the environment.
The Dominus winery itself is noted for its one-of-a-kind construction, designed by visionary Swiss architects Jacques Herzog and Pierre de Meuron. Constructed from gabions filled with basalt rocks, the unique design provides insulation from the heat and cold, while allowing natural light to filter through.