The 2021 vintage of Dominus is a triumph for the estate. Awarded a perfect 100 point score by several different critics, this new release looks set to rank among the all-time greats in Napa. The Moueix family have held pricing for the 2021 despite its widespread critical acclaim. This wine looks like a fantastic buy.
Established in 1982 by Christian Moueix, son of Jean-Pierre Moueix, Dominus has always benefitted from the expertise of some of Bordeaux’s highest profile estates. Jean-Claude Berrouet of Ch Petrus was heavily involved in the early years. Today, viticultural best practices continue to be shared across the Atlantic.
The success at Dominus in 2021 is partly a result of particularly favourable weather conditions. The year was much drier than usual, leading to small berries with exceptionally high levels of phenolics. The absence of heat spikes during the summer meant that the wine retained freshness and balance.
In 2021, the grapes for Dominus come as always entirely from the estate’s Napanook plot in Yountville. Located next to the Mayacamas mountains, the vineyard is dry-farmed and only the best grapes are selected. The blend for 2021 Dominus consists of 95% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Cabernet Franc. The wine was aged for 18 months in 40% new French oak. Just 3,700 cases were made, and there will be no 2022 due to severe weather.
This an outstanding vintage of one of Napa’s finest wines. It will age beautifully for several decades. Collectors should not miss it.
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