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.

Known for its complexity and balance, Dominus demonstrates the potential of a wine produced on the exceptional terroir of the Napanook vineyard. Structured, seamless and perfectly integrated, this is an elegant wine that only improves with age. Bunches are hand-sorted, complemented by optical scanning to ensure only the highest quality grapes are used, gently pressed at low-pressure, and fermented in separate lots before resting in 100% French oak.

It is recommended to decant Dominus prior to serving, to allow it to develop its full potential, particularly when consuming young vintages.

The 2019 Dominus Proprietary Red Wine is a remarkable expression of a red blend from the renowned Dominus estate in Napa, California. This wine embodies the artistry and passion of its producers, showcasing the exceptional quality and character that has made Dominus a revered name in the wine world.

In the glass, the wine exudes a deep, dark hue that captivates the eye. The aromatics are utterly captivating, with an intoxicating blend of crushed stone, lead pencil, and licorice. These vibrant and aromatic notes are complemented by the presence of black cherries, cloves, and purple fruit. It is a truly captivating bouquet that promises a sensory journey like no other.

On the palate, the 2019 Dominus reveals its true brilliance. The full-bodied nature of this wine is evident from the first sip, as it envelops the senses with a round and ripe center-palate. The juicy interior adds a layer of complexity and depth, which is further enhanced by a savory and juicy finish. The wine opens up beautifully, showcasing its layered and beautiful structure.

Notable wine critic James Suckling has awarded this vintage a staggering 98 points, praising its drinkability now but also noting its potential for further aging. Robert Parker's Wine Advocate also awarded it a 98-point score, highlighting its impressive dark hue, concentrated palate, and silky, long finish. Wine Spectator gave it 96 points, noting its dense fruit, superior cut, and capacity for serious cellaring. Jeb Dunnuck awarded it 96 points, describing it as a classic blend with great balance and a charming, endearing character. Vinous, with a score of 98+, considers it a shockingly primary wine of tremendous density and power, with striking complexity.

The 2019 Dominus Proprietary Red Wine is a masterpiece that embodies the essence of Napa Valley winemaking. It is a wine that demands attention and reverence, rewarding those who experience it with a truly unforgettable tasting experience. Whether enjoyed now or cellared for several years, this wine promises to be a journey of unparalleled pleasure and discovery.