2015, Napanook, Jean-Pierre Moueix, NAPA VALLEY

Blend: Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc

The 2015 Napanook is dark, plush and inviting, all of which make it an excellent choice for drinking now and over the next decade or so. Super-ripe black cherry, plum, spice and liquorice notes are all pushed forward in a decidedly lush, open-knit Napanook that will be ready to go pretty much upon release. 92 Antonio Galloni, Vinous (2017)

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 coloured, the 2015 Napanook Proprietary Red Wine is redolent of crème de cassis, potpourri, plum preserves and violets with hints of dark chocolate, menthol, liquorice 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. 93+ Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Wine Advocate (2017)

The drought year brought very little rainfall heading into spring. Alluring, expressive notes of capsicum, red currants, dusty minerals, sandalwood and tobacco leaf. Medium-bodied with profound and expressive earthy notes, like rich hummus scented with iron-stone minerals. A fabulous saline quality and refined, tea-like tannins are featherweight but present, while a spine of firm acidity is thoroughly refreshing. The finish is exceptionally long and filled with baked cherry notes, spiced plums, and wonderful savoury brown spices. 94 Jonathan Cristaldi, Decanter (2024)

Drinking Window: 2018 - 2030