Ratings & Tasting Notes:

Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate:

“The 1998 Napanook (85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Merlot, and 6% Petit Verdot) exhibits soft, straightforward coffee, herbs, cedar, and prune-like black cherry fruit flavors. This is a charming, up-front, medium-bodied wine that is meant to be drunk over the next 4-6 years. This wine (4,300 cases) offers a fine introduction to the Dominus style.” (12/2000)

Wine Spectator:

“Broad and complex, though quite earthy. Cedar, coffee, currant, mineral and meat flavors. Firm tannins. Drink now through 2007.” (06/01)

Cult Wines International Notes:

Napanook is the second wine of the prestigious Dominus Estate, located in Napa Valley’s Yountville AVA. While both wines are made from grapes grown on the historic Napanook vineyard, Napanook is crafted to be a more accessible and earlier-drinking expression of the site’s terroir compared to the flagship Dominus wine.

The Napanook vineyard, which dates back to 1836, provides the foundation for both wines. However, the blend for Napanook often differs slightly from the main wine, allowing for a unique identity. It is typically a Cabernet Sauvignon-dominant blend, with varying proportions of Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and Merlot.

First released in 1996, Napanook is known for being a powerful yet more approachable wine in its youth. It generally showcases a vibrant fruit profile, balanced by supple tannins and a notable freshness. The wine reflects the classic Dominus style of elegance and restraint, while offering a more immediate and fruit-forward drinking experience. It represents an excellent introduction to the quality and character of the Dominus Estate.

Bottle Size:

750 mL

Storage History:

Always stored on its side in a climate-controlled cellar.

Condition:

Outstanding condition.