1992 Dominus Estate, Christian Moueix, Napa Valley, Case of 3 Magnum

RP95 "Production from the 124-acre Napanook Vineyard reached 6,500 cases in 1992 and 10,000 cases in 1994, a figure this winery has been building toward since the debut releases of 1983 and 1984. The 1992 Dominus is similar in style to the 1990. It exhibits an open knit, opulent, rich, easy-going character with gorgeous levels of earthy, cassis fruit intertwined with scents of herbs, coffee, and chocolate/mocha ice cream. Rich and full-bodied, with thick, viscous flavors and low acidity, this is a forward, exceptionally concentrated, easy to understand Dominus that should drink well for 20 years. It appears that Christian Moueix has settled into an identifiable Dominus style (the lavish ripeness routinely achieved in northern California, with the texture of a great Pomerol) since the 1990 vintage. Although older vintages have a similarity to more recent vintages, the older wines possess harder tannin than is present today. The 1993 crop was declassified and sold off in bulk, surprising in view of the fact that many great 1993 Napa Cabernets were produced." RP Dec 1995

Robert Parker writes, "The 1992 Dominus, of which there are 7,000 cases made from a blend of 52% Cabernet Sauvignon, 22% Cabernet Franc, 22% Merlot, and the remainder Petit Verdot, is an opulent, opaquely concentrated wine with great ripeness of fruit, and a huge nose of earth, black-cherries, mocha, and herbs. Full-bodied, with a layered, multidimensional personality, adequate acidity, and a super finish, this should prove to be another fabulous Dominus for drinking over the next 20-25 years. It is more forward than the 1991 or 1990." BT 97-98Pts
Christian Moueix and his winemaking team at Dominus continue to refine and improve Dominus. The most noticeable change has been the sweeter, ripe, softer type of tannin in vintages such as 1989, 1990, 1991, and 1992. Additionally, the element of Cabernet Franc has become more important in certain vintages, with the 1992 boasting 22% Cabernet Franc. The increased amount of new oak utilized has also been a valuable component for complementing the rich, backward, tannic Bordeaux style of wine made at Dominus." Published: Dec 22, 1994