2002 Dominus Napanook
By Dominus
2002 Dominus Napanook by Dominus, Napa Valley, USA
The 2002 Dominus Napanook from Dominus Estate lays claim to one of the best years for fine wines from USA. Positioned in the heart of the prestigious Napa Valley, the winery capitalised on the perfect climatic conditions in 2002 to cultivate and vinify an icon that impressed both critics and connoisseurs alike.
A Classic American Wine Marvel Sculpted by a Stellar Vintage
Confidently commanding attention, the 2002 Napanook does justice to its noble Californian roots. A judicious blend of Bordeaux varietals gives rise to a domineering Cabernet Sauvignon tempered subtly but significantly by Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. The stalwart, sun-kissed bounty of California resonates through every sip.
The warm summer coupled with moderate harvest-time temperatures provided an extended ripening season. Thus crafted is a deeply focused wine that boasts radiant layers of blackberry, plum, and mocha, twined with discernible tints of spice and earthiness.
Investing in Tailored Opulence
As an investment-grade luxury asset, the 2002 Dominus Napanook stands tall in the world of viticultural finance. Its remarkable tasting profile continues to age with grace, promising a decent appreciation in value with each passing year. This enigmatic wine ensconces itself as an essential part of any distinguished portfolio or cellar, projecting a powerful statement about its owner’s appreciation for exceptional new world vintages.
Bringing the Wine Circle Full Circle
To fully appreciate the 2002 Dominus Napanook from Dominus Estate is to engage in a dialogue with numerous eras of winemaking. From the classic French roots of its founder, to the pioneering spirit of Californian viticulture, this outstanding wine distils an array of influences into a unique and compelling profile. With its unbridled potential for maturation and an ever-growing reputation, it stands as a testament to the bold vision and influential character of Dominus Estate.
Market price (CAD)
$1,190.00
12x75cl
Highest score
92
POP score
60
Scores and tasting notes
Dominus is a large vineyard, and they have the ability to make a strict selection. Their second wine, Napanook, continues to get better and better. The 2002 Napanook (2,400 cases from a blend of 68% Cabernet Sauvignon, 13% Cabernet Franc, 11% Merlot, 7% Petit Verdot, and 1% Malbec) is more structured and tannic than the 2003, but also deeper colored with additional notes of plum liqueur, black currants, underbrush, cedar, and licorice. Full-bodied, rich, and powerful, this impressive effort requires 1-3 years of cellaring, and will drink well over the following 12-15 years. One of the interesting things at Dominus is that when I do my tastings they open and decant the same wines the day before, and the wines with extended aeration always reveal more complexity and sweeter tannin than the just opened bottles, a characteristic purchasers should take into consideration. Decanting several hours in advance is recommended. Kudos to the brilliant Christian Moueix for these achievements ... the most distinctive and individualist Cabernet Sauvignon-based wines of Napa Valley. (Release date Summer 2005) Tel. (707) 944-8954; Fax (707) 944-0547
Robert Parker Jr - The Wine Advocate, 27 February 2005