2018 Dominus Estate Napanook Cabernet Sauvignon

Bordeaux native Christian Moueix has long had an interest in Californian wine, having first sampled the wines during his time studying at the University of California, Davis, in the late 1960s. So while he returned to Bordeaux and worked with his father at their negociant operation (which today includes chateaus such as Trotanoy, La Fleur-Petrus and Hosanna in Pomerol and Belair-Monange in Saint-Emilion), Christian would regularly travel to California culminating in 1982 when he became a partner in the Napanook vineyard. This vineyard would become the foundation for Dominus Estate a year later. In 1995 Christian bought out his partners and became sole owner of the property.

Other Reviews....
Deep garnet-purple in color, the 2018 Napanook leaps from the glass with vivacious scents of fresh blueberries, black cherries, crushed blackcurrants and redcurrant jelly with hints of pencil shavings, red roses and dusty soil plus a waft of bay leaves. Medium-bodied, the palate is very tightly wound, allowing glimpses at loads of mineral and savory nuances among the taut black and red fruit notes, supported by fine-grained tannins and bold freshness, finishing with a compelling herbal lift. Drink 2022 - 2036.
93+ points
Lisa Perrotti-Brown - Wine Advocate (Feb 2021)

The 2018 Napanook is every bit the charmer it was last year. Succulent and racy out of the glass, the 2018 is such a gorgeous wine. Silky tannins and generous fruit give the 2018 so much immediacy and appeal. Black cherry, plum, menthol, spice and licorice are pushed forward. Drink 2025-2033.
93 points
Antonio Galloni - Vinous

Gorgeous aromas of plums and currants with some wet earth, mushroom, bark and incense undertones. Woody. Medium-to full-bodied with such beautiful depth and length. So subtle and long. Fabulous harmony. One of the best I have ever tasted. Drink or hold.
97 points
James Suckling

The 2018 Napanook showed incredibly well, with fabulous crème de cassis, spring flowers, graphite, and green tobacco aromas and flavors. With terrific ripeness, medium to full body, and ripe, yet polished tannins, this beauty should be snatched up by savvy readers. It should evolve for 15 years or more. The blend is 90% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Cabernet Franc, and the rest Petit Verdot, aged in 20% new French oak. Drink 2021 - 2036.
94 points
Jeb Dunnuck