Dominus Estate’s Napanook vineyard is an exceptional place, not only for the physical location in a natural amphitheatre at the foothills of the Mayacamas Mountains, but also for the historical significance — where George Yount planted Napa Valley’s first vines in 1838.

Since then, the property has had several esteemed owners. Christian Moueix began farming the land in 1982 taking advantage of the natural conditions including a climate of warm, dry summers tempered the by cooling breezes of the San Pablo Bay as well as the well-drained volcanic clay-loam that is well-suited for Cabernet Sauvignon in particular and Bordeaux varietals in general.

The bold and vibrant character of Napanook is a distinct reflection of the site and the attention to detail and care taken with the dry-farming techniques as well as a minimalist winemaking approach. The wine exhibits exuberant fruit, smooth structure and, and medium texture. The reward is wine with complex flavour that is deeply connected to terroir and meticulous technique.

“Aromas of currants, blackberries, fresh mushrooms and flowers. Medium-bodied with compacted fruit and integrated, fine tannins. Ripe fruit with reserve. Attractive and alluring. Excellent structure.”
95 points, James Suckling, February 2022

“A blend of 88% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Cabernet Franc and 5% Petit Verdot, the fruit for the 2020 Napanook (like the 2020 Dominus) was picked prior to the start of the Glass Fire on September 27. Scents of redcurrants and cherries lead the way, bolstered by notes of dark chocolate and mocha. It’s medium to full-bodied and silky in feel, despite a touch of warmth on the palate, while the long finish picks up a hint of red capsicum and a touch of coarseness.”
92 points, Joe Czerwinski, Wine Advocate, June 2023