# Dominus Estate (2010)

- **Producer:** Dominus Estate
- **Colour:** red
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc
- **Region:** California, United States
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 14.5%
- **Contains sulphites:** No
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 15–16 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** blackcurrant, black cherry, red cherry, red plum, blackberry, vanilla, cedar, cloves, chocolate, dried fruit, tobacco, earth, leather

## About this wine

Dominus Estate, produced by Christian Moueix in Napa Valley's Yountville appellation, is a celebrated Bordeaux-style blend. The 2010 vintage is noted for its complexity and elegance, a result of the estate's unique terroir and the winemaker's meticulous approach. This year's wine reflects the challenges of the growing season, demonstrating resilience and balance. Christian Moueix, with his deep family history in winemaking, has positioned Dominus as a leading estate in California, known for its distinctive expression of Napa Valley fruit combined with Old World finesse.

## Interesting facts

- Christian Moueix also managed Château Pétrus.
- The 2010 vintage faced a challenging weather cycle.
- Dominus is often compared to top Bordeaux growths.
- Robert Parker awarded the 2010 vintage a perfect 100 points.

## Food pairing

The wine's full body and firm tannins are well-suited to complement the richness and protein of red meats, softening the tannins and enhancing the savory flavors. Its well-knit freshness can cut through richer sauces and fatty components, while subtle herbal or dark fruit notes in the wine can echo or contrast with elements in the dish.

## Wine making process

The winemaking process at Dominus Estate involves meticulous vineyard selection and hand-sorting of grapes, both by cluster and by berry using optical sorting technology. Fermentation is guided by gentle pump-overs to manage extraction. The wine undergoes hand-racking every three months during its aging process. The 2010 vintage was aged in 40% new oak barrels, a practice that contributes to the wine's structure and complexity. The overall approach prioritizes minimal intervention to allow the expression of the Yountville terroir.