Dominus   Dominus Napanook

2015 Dominus Napanook

By Dominus

2015 Dominus Napanook by Dominus, Napa Valley, USA

The 2015 Dominus Napanook by Dominus, an exceptional vintage emerging from the premium terroir of Napa Valley, beautifully symbolizes the genesis of nuanced flavor that is the signature trait of American fine wines. As we delve into the disposition of this exquisite wine, we're immediately swept up in a dialogue between transformative meteorological conditions and a symphony of Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot grapes.

 

Intense climatic symbiosis, yielding timeless luxury

A dramatic drought in Napa Valley led to earlier harvest dates in 2015, concentrating flavors within the smaller berried fruit. This tightly woven intensity permeates through to the resulting vintages, setting the 2015 Dominus Napanook by Dominus starkly apart from its brothers and sisters.

Fine wine investors would appreciate how this climatic menagerie has imprinted upon every ounce of the final product. It's an investment opportunity that is an unopen invitation to partake in mother nature's grandest experiments.

 

A Canvas forged in Drought; A Masterpiece born

The influence of the 2015 drought on American fine wines comes to rest eloquently in the glass. On pouring, the 2015 Dominus Napanook reveals its dense ruby-purple self to the world. One is taken on a journey through forests of ripe black cherries gently speckled with hints of cedar and subtle earthiness suggesting clear imprints of climate on this compelling creation.

Its polished tannin structure carries flavours with authority yet finesse, a trait that commands attention from admirers seeking quality that endures across vintages. The velvety mouthfeel and long finish brings the experience to a fittingly grand display befitting a masterpiece.

In conclusion, the 2015 Dominus Napanook by Dominus is a snapshot of what challenging conditions can create in the world of fine wines from USA. The vintage stands as a testament to how extraordinary wines can be fashioned in the midst of adversity – a showcase of will, resilience and adaptability – traits that are just as important in weaving successful investment portfolios.

Market price (GBP)

£600.00

12x75cl

Highest score

93

POP score

46.15

Scores and tasting notes

93

Bottled in July 2017, Dominus’ more approachable, less tannic sister wine, Napanook, is a blend this year of 93% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Petit Verdot and 3% Cabernet Franc. Deep garnet-purple colored, the 2015 Napanook Proprietary Red Wine is redolent of crème de cassis, potpourri, plum preserves and violets with hints of dark chocolate, menthol, licorice and charcoal. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is densely packed with black fruit preserves and earthy layers, supported by firm, ripe, fine-grained tannins and finishing with great length.

Lisa Perrotti-Brown - The Wine Advocate, 31 October 2017

Vintage performance