Dominus Estate is the Napa Valley project of Christian Moueix, the man behind Chateau Petrus in Pomerol. Founded in 1981 after Moueix discovered the historic Napanook vineyard west of Yountville, Dominus has established itself as one of California's most critically admired wines, blending a distinctly Bordeaux-influenced style with the ripeness and power that Napa Valley's climate provides. The 2010 is the estate's most acclaimed release, receiving a perfect 100 points from Robert Parker and 99 from James Suckling.

The 2010 Dominus is composed of 95% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Petit Verdot, sourced entirely from the dry-farmed Napanook vineyard. The 2010 growing season featured wild swings that removed the Cabernet Franc from contention, concentrating the blend around Cabernet Sauvignon. Parker described the wine as possessing 'an exceptional perfume of hoisin sauce, licorice, underbrush, forest floor, plums, black currants and jammy cherries,' with a 'full-bodied, voluptuously textured' palate and a capacity to age effortlessly for twenty to twenty-five years. Vinous (Antonio Galloni) awarded 97-98 points, describing it as 'a powerhouse that will require a number of years to soften.'

The 2010 Dominus occupies a unique position in fine wine: a perfect Parker score from a Napa Valley wine with strong Bordeaux roots, now at fifteen years of age and entering its early maturity window. The wine has been consistently cited in vertical tastings as one of the greatest American wines produced this century. Auction prices have reflected this critical consensus, and bottles have become increasingly scarce as the vintage continues to develop in cellars worldwide.

Decant for three to four hours and serve at 18 degrees Celsius. Best from now through 2040; the window is long. Pair with roasted prime rib, venison, truffled preparations or aged cheddar.

Deep, near-opaque ruby-black. The bouquet is extraordinary: hoisin sauce, licorice, forest floor, cedar, plums, black currants and jammy cherries, layered with baking spice and oak. Full-bodied and voluptuously textured on the palate with massive but perfectly integrated tannins, superb acidity and a finish of near-endless persistence. A monument.