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What happens when you combine French winemaker Christian Moueix of Pétrus fame with Napanook, one of Napa Valley’s most famous vineyards?
You get Dominus, a wine that shares a terroir with the legendary wines of the Inglenook Vineyards era. Moueix was in good company when he decided to harvest the land: other portions of the vineyards were picked up by Robert Mondavi and Francis Ford Coppola (with his earnings from The Godfather). In 1982, Moueix formed a partnership with Robin Lail and Marcia Smith (daughters of the late Inglenook Vineyards owner John Daniel Jr., and heirs to the property) to produce what he prophesized would become “the greatest wine in America.”

A Fine Blend
Dominus is a “Bordeaux blend,” made up of primarily Cabernet Sauvignon with a dash of Petit Verdot, Merlot and Cabernet Franc. In France, a Cabernet Sauvignon-heavy blend like this would be found on the left bank, whereas Moueix is famous for his right bank wines: Pétrus, Trotanoy and Magdelaine. No matter though, one taste of Dominus will prove that Moueix knows what he’s doing, regardless of the varietals involved. Dominus combines the richness and ripeness of a California Cab with some of the grace of a fine claret.

The French Touch
In typical Moueix style, Dominus is made in a very “French fashion:” serious attention to the vineyard health, three weeks of fermentation, 18 months in barrel and no filtration. The first vintage for Dominus was in 1983 and the wine has gained the respect of critics and consumers alike for the past 20 odd years.

Best of Both Worlds
What’s more, Christian Moueix has become one of the few vinters to straddle the Atlantic and make highly sought-after wines on both sides of the pond. One has to wonder what will happen to Bordeaux if Moueix decides to venture over to the left bank or, in another lifetime, to Burgundy!