2014 Napanook, Dominus Estate, Napa

Supple, easy going and charming, but with depth and intensity, the 2014 Napanook is quite simply delicious. It offers the sense of poise and precision of its bigger brother, but at a very reasonably price. Outstanding.

Critic score
92.5/100
Pricing
In bond
Duty Paid
Magnum
7 available
£118.60
Buy Duty Paid
Case, 3 Magnums
2 available
£355.80
Buy Duty Paid

WINE DETAILS

  • Region & country
    USA
  • Grape
    88% Cabernet Sauvignon
    9% Petit Verdot
    3% Cabernet Franc
  • Maturity
    Ready 2018 - 2035
  • Colour
    Red
  • Sweetness
    Dry
  • Style
    Still
  • Unit Volume
    Magnum (150cl.)
  • ABV
    14.5%
2014 Napanook, Dominus Estate, Napa

TASTING NOTES

The 2014s, where the production of Napanook was only 2,200 cases and Dominus slightly more than the 2015 at 4,000 cases, was another early harvest, although somewhat later than 2015. The 2014 Napanook is a blend of 88% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Cabernet Franc and 9% Petit Verdot, showing notes of loamy earth, Christmas fruitcake, black cherry and blackcurrant fruit and underbrush in a supple, fragrant and lush heady style. It is another successful wine that should drink beautifully young and age nicely for up to 20 years.

Robert M. Parker, Jr., Wine Advocate
92/100

The 2014 Napanook is, once again, a very serious wine. Dark, powerful and brooding, the 2014 possesses remarkable intensity packed into its mid-weight frame. Smoke, scorched earth, tobacco, graphite, savory herbs and menthol add to an impression of gravitas. The 2014 doesn't quite have the depth or power of the 2013, but it leans in that direction. I would give it a few years in bottle to settle down. This is an impressive showing.

Antonio Galloni, vinous.com
93/100