The 2015 Dominus Ex-Cellar from Napa Valley is a red wine that has achieved remarkable acclaim from top wine critics, each awarding it a perfect score of 100. It is a proprietary blend composed predominantly of 86% Cabernet Sauvignon, complemented by 9% Petit Verdot and 5% Cabernet Franc. This wine is crafted by Dominus Estate, a respected producer in California's North Coast region.
The Wine Independent describes the wine as having a "deep garnet-purple color" and notes that it initially requires some coaxing to reveal its complex aromas. These include scents of redcurrant jelly, warm cassis, wild blueberries, and hints of graphite and red roses. The review highlights its "full-bodied palate" with firm, grainy tannins and a seamless freshness that underscores its opulent and perfumed black and red fruit layers.
Similarly, Jeb Dunnuck praises the 2015 Dominus as "a flawless, perfect wine" and "a legend in the making." He draws a parallel to the renowned 2015 Château Margaux, citing its "incredible mix of elegance and power." Dunnuck describes an "extraordinary bouquet" of blackcurrants, crème de cassis, and spring flowers, with "stunning purity of fruit" and "awesome length," predicting it will evolve gracefully for 25-30 years or more.
Robert Parker's Wine Advocate echoes these sentiments, noting the wine's "incredible energy and vivacity." The review mentions distinct notes of fresh wild blueberries, crushed blackberries, and black currant juice, with additional complexities such as wild thyme, iron ore, and pencil lead. The review emphasizes its "firm, pixelated tannins" and "lively backbone," concluding with "wonderful length and depth."
Overall, the 2015 Dominus Ex-Cellar is a highly esteemed wine, celebrated for its complexity, elegance, and potential for long-term aging.