critic reviews
The only one of the Dominus wines to show more than a hint of wood, the 2023 Dominus matured in 40% new French oak, leaving it marked by caramel and cedar overtones. Yet that oak aging is balanced by plenty of black cherry fruit and loamy earth notes, blending easily into a harmonious whole. Medium- to full-bodied, this rich, almost creamy blend of 87% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Cabernet Franc and 4% Petit Verdot finishes with velvety tannins borne on a finish that unfolds to reveal incredible persistence and complexity.
The 2023 Dominus is a very pretty, surprisingly open-knit wine from this estate. Soft contours wrap around a core of pliant red/purplish fruit. Lavender, rose petal and gently spiced overtones caress the mid-palate and finish. I expect the 2023 will drink well with minimal cellaring, something that is rarely the case here.