I was fortunate to get to taste the 2023 vintage of Dominus- Napa Valley. This world-renowned wine is a blend of 87% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Cabernet Franc, and 4% Petit Verdot, with 40% using new French oak.
It scored a 100 Pt rating and several 98 – 99 Pt ratings, and
the 2023 vintage is considered one of the finest and age-worthy releases from the Winery in a decade or more.
The inclusion in the tasting was a total surprise, heightening my anticipation when I saw the wine listed- it’s been about 10 years since I tasted it.
This displays everything you would expect: finesse, restraint, impeccable balance, excellent depth and complexity, exceptional structure and ultra-fine-grained tannins with perfectly measured acidity. On top of that, this is built to age, decades or more, so be patient. It walks a thin line between freshness and an almost creamy opulence.
Seductive aromas of black berries and black currants, dark cherries, cedar, and a hint of violets.
The palate is cashmere smooth and inviting, framing seamless layers of black currants, dark cherries, and blackberries, with secondary notes of turned earth, cedar, pencil shavings, and dark chocolate cocoa.
I would expect this to cellar out to 2045 with confidence.
Food pairings should include Dry‑aged ribeye, Roast leg of lamb, Venison with juniper, and Braised short ribs, as well as vegetarian options centered on mushrooms: Wild mushroom risotto, Mushroom bourguignon, and Black truffle tagliatelle.
Vine to Table 