The Wine Advocate | RP 98
Published: Oct 30, 2015

The exuberance and drama in the stunning nose of the dense plum-colored 2012 Dominus offers up notes of Asian spice, ripe, black currants, kirsch, tobacco leaf and Christmas fruitcake. It is full-bodied and opulent, with no hard edges, a seamless integration of acidity, wood and tannin and a density and richness that are built to go on for 25-30 years. 
Drink Date: 2015 - 2045

Jamessuckling.com | JS 98
Published: Nov 1, 2015

Fabulous purity and clarity of fruit. Black currants, blackberries and violets. Full body, big soft tannins and a chocolate, hazelnut and dark fruit character. Some hot stones too. Ripe, velvety and fruity finish. Better in 2020 but delicious to drink now. Wonderful Dominus. 

Winemaker

Tasting Notes:
The Dominus 2012 exemplifies the finest qualities of Cabernet Sauvignon from an ideal vintage. The intriguing nose offers a depth of aromas including lavender, Asian spices and cedar. Soft, supple tannins buoy layers of dark earth and cocoa. The wine is racy yet refined with a long elegant finish.

2012 enjoyed a perfect growing season. Plentiful rainfall in March and April lessened winter drought concerns, and a mild spring with few temperature fluctuations contributed to an even budbreak and a healthy bloom. Summer temperatures were consistently warm, without excessive heat spikes, which provided conditions for slow, homogenous maturation of fruit, exhibiting great character and richness.

2012 DOMINUS Napa Valley
Napanook Vineyard, Yountville, CA
Harvest Start: October 9
Harvest End: October 21
Bottling Date: July 2014
Percent New Barrels: 40%
Cases Produced: 5000
Blend: Cabernet Sauvignon: 93%, Cabernet Franc: 2%, Petit Verdot: 5%
Release Date: June 2015