Dominus Estate Christian Moueix Napa Valley 2016

The 2016 Dominus opens in a reserved, classical mode, then unfurls with precision: wild forest berries and juniper glide into truffle, lavender, graphite and dark chocolate. The palate is compact and tightly woven, with fine-grained tannins, a cool stony undercurrent and bright acidity that lends lift to the concentrated black-currant core. Long, poised and savory on the finish with hints of tobacco and spice, it is a benchmark Napa Cabernet blend that speaks clearly of the dry-farmed, gravelly Napanook site. Decanting in youth is beneficial; the wine has a long life ahead.