2023, Ulysses, Jean-Pierre Moueix, NAPA VALLEY (Oakville)

Blend: Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot

This is evolving beautifully, with aromas of blueberries, limes, sandalwood, cedar, black currants and a hint of cardamom. Medium to full-bodied with totally integrated tannins that melt into the wine and give it a structured presence, framing and an endless centre palate. Best Ulysses ever? Cabernet sauvignon with touches of cab franc and petit verdot. Drink or hold.
99 James Suckling

More cassis, chalky minerality, graphite, and sappy violet notes intermixed with orange blossom aromatics define the 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon. Based primarily on Cabernet Sauvignon with a touch of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot and aged 20 months in 40% new French oak, it's medium to full-bodied and has a round, layered, concentrated mouthfeel with ripe tannins and the vintage's fresh, focused style. This is more structured, with slightly more acidity compared to its stablemate Dominus, and it will evolve beautifully on its balance over the coming two-plus decades. Drink 2025-2050.
97 Jeb Dunnuck.

The 2023 Ulysses is a fine effort from proprietor Christian Mouiex and longtime winemaker Tod Mostero. A whole range of dark-toned fruits, mocha, spice, new leather and incense nuances open with a bit of time in the glass. This is a vintage that is partly defined by tannins with a large-ish grain. In its short history Ulysses has proven to age well. I look forward to checking in on the 2023 again in another few years' time. 2027-2043.
95 Antonio Galloni, Vinous.