Dominus, Napanook, Napa Valley 2020

With a towering structure and solid composition, the Napanook delivers ripe red berries, gooseberry, and black cherry fruit. The aromatics possess a quiet intensity, which builds with good momentum on the palate, finding a broad and expansive medium to full-bodied palate with elegant strands of granular-textured tannins. Nicely delineated red cherry and blackberry fruits are infused with spicebush notes, an aromatic shrub brush surrounding the property, which layers in a distinct citrusy nuance. Quite compact upon opening, and decanting for at least half an hour is recommended—a solid effort in a challenging year.

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. 88% cabernet sauvignon, 7% cabernet franc and 5% petit verdot. Give it at least five years to open and soften, but very attractive now.

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.